Navigating the Fog

Dementia and Care in Lebanon

2024 Issue No. 2

Dr. Monique Chaaya

Dementia, a term often misunderstood and shrouded in stigma, is increasingly becoming a public health concern in Lebanon as its aging population continues to grow. Beyond the numbers, however, lies a profoundly human story of individuals and families navigating a path marked by challenges, changes, and moments of connection. Through her research and work, Dr. Monique Chaaya, AUB professor at the Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, sheds light on the current landscape of dementia care in Lebanon, offering a window into the challenges and potential pathways forward.

“Dementia is actually an umbrella of disorders and conditions, referred to as a syndrome, characterized by a decline in cognitive functioning serious enough to interfere with daily life,” says Dr. Chaaya. This decline is progressive, marking a gradual deterioration rather than an abrupt change. Alzheimer’s disease, perhaps the most recognized form of dementia, constitutes about 60 percent of cases, but other types, such as vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia, also contribute to the syndrome’s complexity.

Lebanon, with the highest proportion of older adults in the region, faces a significant challenge. Aging is the strongest risk factor for dementia, and with a growing segment of the population entering their senior years, the burden of dementia is an increasing concern. Dr. Chaaya’s research, initiated in 2010, sought to address the glaring gap in data regarding the prevalence and burden of dementia in Lebanon. Through collaboration with international and local experts, her work has been pioneering in establishing a foundational understanding of dementia’s impact in the country.

A critical aspect of Dr. Chaaya’s findings is the caregiving crisis in Lebanon. Most dementia care is informal, resting on the shoulders of family members who often lack the support and resources necessary for this demanding role. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of specialized dementia care centers and the societal tendency to exclude or isolate those living with dementia, further diminishing their quality of life.

Addressing the challenges of dementia in Lebanon requires a multifaceted approach, integrating public policy, increased accessibility to care, and heightened awareness of the condition. Dr. Chaaya advocates for strengthening geriatric care, the establishment of memory clinics, and the creation of dementia-friendly communities. Moreover, her ongoing research continues to uncover risk factors for dementia, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention to improve outcomes for those affected.

Dr. Chaaya’s engagement with dementia is not solely academic; it is also profoundly personal. As a caregiver to her mother living with dementia, she brings a unique perspective to her work, underscoring the importance of maintaining dignity and promoting social inclusion for those living with the condition. “I’m a caregiver. I have support at home, but I’m a very close caregiver to my mom, who has been there for five years . . . it’s a lot of work. It’s not easy, but at least she’s still with us,” says Dr. Chaaya. Her dedication to the cause is a testament to the profound impact that personal experience can have on driving forward research and advocacy.