China is taking significant steps to address the growing issue of dementia with an action plan released by the National Health Commission along with other government departments on Friday. The country has set ambitious goals to significantly reduce the incidence rate of dementia-related conditions by 2030, aiming to create a comprehensive system that includes prevention, screenings, diagnoses, treatments, rehabilitation, and care services for those affected by dementia.

The drive to curtail dementia is attributed to the country's rapidly aging population, which has led to increasing prevalence rates of the condition. Official data indicates that as of late 2023, nearly 297 million people, which constitutes 21.1 percent of China's population, were aged 60 and older. This figure is expected to surpass 400 million by 2035, peaking around 2050, as life expectancy continues to rise, from 71 years in 1998 to 78.6 years in 2023 and projected to reach 81.3 years by 2035 according to a Lancet study.

Dementia stands out as a significant challenge among the elderly, being one of the primary causes of disability and dependence. A 2023 report from the China Association for Alzheimer’s Disease indicated that roughly 6 percent of the senior population is living with dementia, with 4 percent specifically having Alzheimer’s and around 1.6 percent affected by vascular dementia. The rates of Alzheimer's and other types of dementia have been steadily increasing, particularly among older age groups. By 2030, it is predicted that around 19.1 million seniors will suffer from Alzheimer’s, escalating to 27.6 million by 2050.

The report also pointed out the acute shortage of professional caregivers for dementia patients, highlighting that about 70 percent of these individuals receive care at home from family members. With the number of elderly individuals on the rise, the demand for professional caregiving services is expected to exceed availability, necessitating improved support infrastructures.

To facilitate better cognitive function screening for those aged 65 and above, the action plan envisions a coordinated effort among primary healthcare facilities, hospitals, and disease control centers. Patients with concerning screening results will be directed to appropriate medical institutions for further assessment. The initiative encourages medical facilities to set up specialized memory clinics and calls for enhancement of care services tailored to dementia at various care levels.

By 2030, it is anticipated that half of the nation's larger elderly care homes will feature specialized units dedicated to dementia patients, supplemented by training for an additional 15 million caregivers to better meet the complexities of their needs. The new action plan represents a significant commitment by China to confront the challenges posed by dementia amidst a rapidly aging society.