I Cova1, F Del Tedesco2, L Maggiore3, L Pantoni2, S Pomati3. 1. Center for Research and Treatment on Cognitive Dysfunctions, Neurology Unit, L. Sacco University Hospital, Via G.B. Grassi, 74, 20157, Milan, Italy. ilaria.cova@unimi.it. 2. Luigi Sacco Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy. 3. Center for Research and Treatment on Cognitive Dysfunctions, Neurology Unit, L. Sacco University Hospital, Via G.B. Grassi, 74, 20157, Milan, Italy.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The number of migrants with dementia in Italy might increase considerably over the coming years due to the increasing flow of immigration and the aging of the population. AIMS: We retrospectively registered rate and characteristics of demented migrant outpatients referred to one hospital in Milan from 2001 to 2017. METHODS: Information about country of origin of migrants attending general neurology and memory clinics was obtained from their Italian tax code. Socio-demographic, cultural, and clinical characteristics were derived from their medical records. RESULTS: Migrants with cognitive decline represented a minimal fraction (3.1%) of demented outpatients, but a grow rate of 400% was registered within the period of observation. A linguistic barrier resulted as the main obstacle for the application of available diagnostic tools for dementia. DISCUSSION/ CONCLUSION: Given the above-reported data, the implementation of strategies (such as transcultural diagnostic instruments) and policies dedicated to this growing health problem appears a priority for our health systems.
BACKGROUND: The number of migrants with dementia in Italy might increase considerably over the coming years due to the increasing flow of immigration and the aging of the population. AIMS: We retrospectively registered rate and characteristics of demented migrant outpatients referred to one hospital in Milan from 2001 to 2017. METHODS: Information about country of origin of migrants attending general neurology and memory clinics was obtained from their Italian tax code. Socio-demographic, cultural, and clinical characteristics were derived from their medical records. RESULTS: Migrants with cognitive decline represented a minimal fraction (3.1%) of demented outpatients, but a grow rate of 400% was registered within the period of observation. A linguistic barrier resulted as the main obstacle for the application of available diagnostic tools for dementia. DISCUSSION/ CONCLUSION: Given the above-reported data, the implementation of strategies (such as transcultural diagnostic instruments) and policies dedicated to this growing health problem appears a priority for our health systems.