‘The link between formal education and the risk of dementia’

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Dementia is the major cause of dependency amongst older adults. Despite there is ongoing literature, which evaluates the association between formal education and risk of developing dementia, further research needs to be established. The purpose of the study is to find evidence-based literature, assessing the level of education as a risk factor for developing dementia. Research question: ‘In adults, does the level of formal education affect the risk of developing dementia?’ Method used: An inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed, so that relevant studies could be selected. Studies including adults, participants free from dementia, effect of education as a risk factor for dementia were included. Studies which involved participants that were already diagnosed with dementia, analysing survival rates and other risk factors of dementia were excluded. Databases were accessed through the University of Malta Library online search facility (PubMed, Ageline (EBSCO), PsycINFO (EBSCO) and MEDLINE ProQuest). Out of a total of 8,704 citations gathered from different databases, using different keywords, twelve articles were retrieved as relevant to the PEO question. All twelve articles were analysed in greater depth, which then seven studies were excluded and five studies were identified as eligible for analysis. The studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool and the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria. Overall findings: The overall studies found an association that individuals with low formal education have a higher risk of developing dementia. Further research needs to be conducted, for a more substantial argument. Recommendations and implication for practice: The main recommendations were the promotion of preventative strategies to decrease the risk of dementia in the public health. Through realistic methods, local educational and dementia strategies can be altered, for the benefit of public health. The importance to minimise early school leavers and investment in life-long learning was also highlighted.