An integrative review of empirical literature on indigenous cognitive impairment and dementia

Abstract

Aims To synthesize research findings about Indigenous perspectives on cognitive impairment and dementia. Design Whittemore and Knafl's updated approach to integrative review and PRISMA guidelines for narrative analysis was followed. Data Sources A systematic search of the published literature from 2010–June 2020 was undertaken in four databases and complemented by supplementary searches. Review Methods Thirty‐four studies met the research question and inclusion criteria. Results Four themes describe the findings. Most of the studies were conducted by non‐Indigenous researchers and may reflect Western perspectives on dementia rather than Indigenous views. A majority of the studies report epidemiological data or the testing of clinical tools. Conclusion The review indicates a dearth of knowledge about Indigenous perspectives on ageing and understanding of cognitive impairment and dementia. Researchers need to draw on Indigenous traditional knowledge, culture, and traditions through a meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities and Elders to indigenize and decolonize dementia care. Impact This integrative review highlights the need for community‐led discussions and community engagement around Indigenous perspectives, needs, and understandings of ageing, cognitive impairment, and dementia care.

Potentially Preventable Dementia in a First Nations Population in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area of North Queensland, Australia: A Cross Sectional Analysis Using Population Attributable Fractions

“…First Nations populations globally experience higher potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia, 32 often related to the consequences of colonization and the erosion of traditional lifestyles. 12 Similarities between our study and the Maori population reflect the excess of modifiable risk factors for dementia in both populations. The contribution of hypertension and diabetes mellitus was higher in the current study than global and New Zealand estimates (Supplementary Table 4).…”

Potentially preventable dementia in a First Nations population in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area of North Queensland, Australia: A cross sectional analysis using population attributable fractions

“…First Nations populations globally experience higher potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia, 32 often related to the consequences of colonization and the erosion of traditional lifestyles. 12 Similarities between our study and the Māori population reflect the excess of modifiable risk factors for dementia in both populations. The contribution of hypertension and diabetes mellitus was higher in the current study than global and New Zealand estimates (Supplementary Table 4).…”

“…First Nations Australians already experience higher rates of age-related diseases than their non-Indigenous counterparts. 9 This inequity arises from the enduring result of European colonization, which corroded traditional lifestyles 12 and introduced many adverse social determinants of disease. These determinants include intergenerational trauma, racial discrimination, cultural disconnection, land dispossession, and reduced access to health services and education.…”

Volume, scope, and consideration of ethical issues in Indigenous cognitive impairment and dementia research: A systematic scoping review of studies published between 2000-2021

“…Despite the higher prevalence and associated risk factors of dementia among Indigenous peoples, there is a paucity of research on dementia in Indigenous populations (Racine et al, 2021; Warren et al, 2015). Although previous reviews have examined specific aspects of dementia and Indigenous people (Browne et al, 2017; De Souza-Talarico et al, 2016; Racine et al, 2021) to date, no comprehensive review of the amount and type of Indigenous dementia research conducted globally has been undertaken.…”