Dementia is a neurological disorder in which patients gradually lose their memory over time. However, memory loss is not the only consequence of this condition—it also significantly reduces life expectancy.

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal reveals that being diagnosed with dementia decreases an individual’s average lifespan. According to the findings, the survival rate diminishes by approximately two years if dementia is diagnosed at age 85.

• At 80 years of age: Life expectancy decreases by 3–4 years.
• At 65 years of age: The reduction is more severe, shortening life expectancy by up to 13 years.

The study also highlights differences in life expectancy reductions between men and women.

Conducted by researchers in the Netherlands, this comprehensive analysis reviewed data from 261 studies spanning 1984 to 2024. The research included over 5 million individuals diagnosed with dementia. The focus was on understanding the reduction in life expectancy post-diagnosis and the average duration before patients required nursing home care.

The research found significant variations in the reduction of life expectancy based on age and gender:

• Women diagnosed at age 60 experience a reduced lifespan of 9 years.
• At age 85, women lose an average of 4.5 years, while men lose 2 years.
• For men aged 60, the reduction is approximately 6.5 years.

These findings underscore that dementia's effects become more pronounced with advancing age.

Each year, there are approximately 10 million new cases of dementia worldwide. Survival rates among patients, however, vary considerably. In Asian populations, the median age of diagnosis for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia is 1.4 years higher than in other regions.

Dementia affects not only cognitive function but also physical health and overall life expectancy. Early intervention and proper care are essential to improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition. Taking timely steps can ensure that patients receive the support and resources they need to live better and longer lives.