Dementia isn’t just forgetfulness—it’s about slowly losing the essence of who you are. In Malaysia, this silent epidemic is growing faster than most realise, driven by an ageing population and widespread chronic illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure. Globally, dementia affects more than 55 million people, and the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts this number will reach 78 million by 2030[i]. Malaysia, with nearly 16% of its population aged 60 and above,[ii] is no exception. Local studies suggest over 200,000 Malaysians are living with dementia[iii], and the figure is likely underestimated due to low awareness and limited screening.
Dementia vs. Normal Ageing
It often begins subtly—a forgotten name, a repeated story, a misplaced item. Dr. Mohamad Imran bin Idris, Consultant Neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City explores the often-overlooked aspect of dementia care and the signs, “When someone can no longer perform tasks, they once managed easily—cooking, managing finances, holding a conversation—that’s when we begin to suspect dementia,” he said.
Dr. Imran explained that while slower memory and reduced mental agility can come with age, dementia is different. “The hallmark of dementia isn’t just forgetfulness,” he said. “It is when thinking skills interfere with daily life—language, judgement, even recognising familiar faces. That is when it is time to get help.”
The Vascular Link in Dementia, Why Lifestyle Matters
He also clarified a common confusion: Alzheimer’s disease is just one type of dementia. “Dementia is an umbrella term. Alzheimer’s is the most well-known, but in Malaysia, vascular dementia caused by impaired blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or due to chronic conditions like high blood pressure is also very common.”
Conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking and diabetes are key contributors to vascular dementia, and all are common among Malaysians. “Technically, age is a risk factor we can’t control,” said Dr. Imran. “But vascular risks are manageable. You can reduce your risk by managing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels early”
That’s a message not enough people hear. Dementia is often dismissed as just ageing or depression, but its roots can be medical—even in younger adults. “It’s not just grandma or grandpa anymore. We’ve seen people in their 40s and even 30s developing early signs after strokes or years of unmanaged chronic illness,” Dr. Imran shared. The damage builds silently over decades; when symptoms show, the brain may already be severely affected.
Sleep, Social Life—and That Game of Sudoku
While diet and exercise are known brain boosters, one often overlooked factor is sleep. “People glorify working late, surviving on minimal rest. But poor sleep affects brain health more than we realise,” said Dr. Imran.
Socialising also plays a powerful role. “Talking with friends, engaging in conversation—these spontaneous, unpredictable interactions challenge the brain and help preserve cognitive function,” he explained. Repetitive digital games may feel mentally stimulating but offer little long-term benefit. “Games like Candy Crush quickly become predictable. Your brain needs novelty.”
The Role of Family and Caregivers
The burden of care for people with dementia often falls on families. It is emotionally and physically draining, and support is limited. “We risk having two unwell people instead of one—the patient and the caregiver,” Dr. Imran cautioned. Structure and routine can help. “If the person with dementia has a routine—going to the park on Mondays, visiting the children on Wednesdays—it helps them feel grounded.” Daycare centres designed specifically for dementia care also offer a small but promising model. They provide safe, stimulating environments for patients and respite for caregivers.
Dr. Imran also shared a poignant story about actor Gene Hackman, who reportedly lived with severe Alzheimer’s. When his wife passed away, Hackman—unable to process the event—remained in a loop of confusion, still caring for her. “People with dementia live only in the present,” Dr. Imran said. “They can’t access the past or plan for the future. That can be terrifying, especially when they’re isolated.” His message: show empathy. “They may not remember your name but feel your kindness.”
Hope on the Horizon
While dementia has long been seen as a hopeless diagnosis, science is now catching up. “Two years ago, I’d have said nothing can be done,” Dr. Imran said. “But now we have medicines that can slow its progression. We’re entering a new era of treatment.”
Screening tools—from digital cognitive assessments to blood tests that detect early brain changes—are becoming more accessible. However, Dr. Imran recommends careful consideration of genetic testing unless medically advised.
His advice is to start thinking seriously about brain health in your 40s and 50s. “Control your blood pressure, stay socially engaged, sleep well, and eat a balanced diet. These aren’t just good habits—they’re investments in your future cognitive health,” he said. “If we care for our hearts to avoid a heart attack, why aren’t we doing the same for our brains?”. This echoes Dr. Imran’s sentiments that dementia isn’t just an old person’s problem anymore and ignoring it won’t make it go away.
[i] World Health Organization. Dementia. WHO Fact Sheets. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
[ii] Ageing Phenomenon : Malaysia Towards 2030 – Malaysia Population Research Hub
[iii] Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), Population and Housing Census 2020.
Aznida Firzah Abdul Aziz et al. (2022). Prevalence of Dementia in Malaysia: A Review. Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences.
