A systematic review of the status of neuropsychological research and dementia in South Asia

Abstract

It is recognised that there is a notable presence of psychology and dementia-related issues in South Asian (SA) countries, and this problem is on the rise. Nevertheless, the problems found in the field of neuropsychology are yet to be fully resolved in the region. Unlike the case in developed countries, neuropsychology, despite the scopes and genuine potential, is not broadly practised in South Asia (which constitutes 25% of the world population), and the opportunity for extensive research is limited. Although India has made substantial progress in neuropsychology through the establishment of neuropsychological units and by developing assessment modules based on cultural requirements and the living standards of the population, the rest of the South Asia region is lagging far behind in the sphere of health science. Neuropsychology covers a vast area of brain-behaviour relationships, of which cognitive impairment is an important part. Except for India, other South Asian countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal have not had specific noteworthy studies on neuropsychology, but there have been a few research works done on neuropsychology, cognitive impairment, and other neurological assessments. This article focuses on reviewing the status of the development of neuropsychological research in South Asia, and it also assesses quantitative studies on dementia in the region where cognitive and neuropsychological assessments have been used.

The 2022 symposium on dementia and brain aging in low‐ and middle‐income countries: Highlights on research, diagnosis, care, and impact

“… 181 In India, it has been necessary to develop various neuropsychological batteries for use in older persons, especially within the rural, low‐educated elderly population. 182 , 183 In Indonesia use of different screening test may be responsible for very high estimates of dementia (up to 33%) and standardization and validation of screening tests is important for accurate estimates. 32 To reduce disparities in dementia diagnosis, neuropsychological tools, and resources must be adapted and validated for use in LMICs.…”