International researchers have introduced two tests that more accurately detect cognitive dysfunction in older African adults.
Part of a broader set of 29 assessments, these tools enhance conventional dementia evaluations typically used in developed countries. Experts say the initiative addresses critical gaps in global ageing research, offering important insights into dementia prevalence and cognitive health in underrepresented populations.
Tailored for the South African context, the tests also capture neuropsychological, functional, and biomarker indicators in participants already showing signs of cognitive impairment.
These tools are part of the HAALSI Dementia-Harmonised Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HAALSI-HCAP), a sub-study within the larger HAALSI programme and the global network of ageing studies.
“By 2050, more than 70% of people living with dementia will be in low- and middle-income countries. Yet we lack reliable, population-level data on the true prevalence of dementia,”
— Professor Stephen Tollman, Director, SA Medical Research Council/Wits University Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit
The HAALSI-HCAP study uses advanced data collection methods, including algorithm-driven analysis, to improve measurement accuracy.
Dr Tamara Taporoski, senior research analyst for HAALSI-HCAP at the Harvard Center for Development and Population Studies, said:
“While algorithmic estimates of dementia prevalence are common in the USA and other high-income countries, HAALSI is the first to combine expert diagnosis with predictive algorithms. This approach is a game-changer for regions with limited healthcare resources, where large-scale traditional testing is often unfeasible.”
Dementia rates in sub-Saharan Africa vary widely, largely due to inconsistent study methods and a lack of standardised, validated data. Although expert diagnosis is the most accurate, it is resource-intensive and difficult to implement at scale.
“Fortunately, we have access to the best science,” Taporoski added. “HAALSI, as a population-based study, tracks cognition and daily function over time to assess dementia burden in sub-Saharan Africa. These new tests enhance our ability to harmonise data and support global dementia research.”
The study aims to capture the unique aspects of ageing in South Africa while contributing to international research efforts.
