China targets dementia with early detection and care plan
As the country ages, the prevalence of the disease is only expected to rise, experts say
The plan, rolled out earlier this week, is a joint initiative of 15 government institutions, including the National Health Commission and the National Development and Reform Commission.
It aims to establish a “thorough and sustained prevention and control system for dementia”, a progressive condition expected to become more prevalent as life expectancy rises in China and birth rates decline.
According to the plan, authorities will conduct widespread cognitive function screenings for the elderly, and identify those at risk of developing dementia.
They will also raise awareness and understanding of prevention and control of the disease, standardise diagnosis and treatment services, and expand care services for elderly individuals with dementia.
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The action plan proposes that half of the beds at certain categories of elderly care institutions be set aside for seniors with dementia. About 15 million people should also have been trained in dementia care by 2030.
