Neurological conditions that come with aging on the rise in Kenya, warn experts

Whilst it is saliently accepted that age is just but a number, it goes beyond it. It comes with a new opportunity to learn and share new things in life; beyond being a stage of lost youth, yet many may not accept it.

However, the darker side of growing old is that, as we age, our bodies and minds face a unique set of challenges. These include neurological disorders, which, alarmingly, have been on the rise in the recent past.

 Kenya, like many developing nations, is experiencing a demographic shift. As the country’s population continues to age, a growing public health crisis is emerging among the elderly.

According to renowned neurologist, Prof Erastus Olonde Amayo, three primary conditions are of particular concern, Dementia, Strokes, and Parkinson’s Disease.

Dementia, and particularly Alzheimer’s, is becoming increasingly common, driven in part by social changes that are breaking down the traditional family structures that once provided support for the elderly.

“As children migrate to urban areas for work, many elderly individuals are left isolated, exacerbating their conditions,” Prof Amayo explains.

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Sedentary lifestyles

This loss of community and social engagement can hasten the onset and progression of debilitating memory loss and cognitive decline.

Strokes pose another significant threat, especially as age-related factors, coupled with lifestyle conditions like hypertension and diabetes, heighten risk.

Prof Amayo s that sedentary lifestyles and dietary shifts towards processed, calorie-dense foods compound the problem, leading to devastating health consequences for the elderly.

Parkinson’s disease, which is characterised by tremors, rigidity, and slowed movements, affects a smaller but still substantial portion of the aging population.

While less prevalent than the other two, it remains a formidable challenge, often leaving patients dependent on family or hired caregivers for daily activities.

The neurologist paints a troubling picture, convoluted by the lack of comprehensive data on the true prevalence of these neurological conditions in Kenya.

“We have not done a major survey to see what the main neurological conditions are,” he says.

The consequences of this knowledge gap are profound, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is severely limited.

“Financial challenges often impede accurate diagnosis and treatment,” Prof Amayo explains, noting that many elderly individuals are forced to choose between seeking medical care and affording necessities.

Kepha Nyanumba, a Nutritionist, underscores the delicate interplay between neurological health and nutritional status in the elderly.

“Some neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and acid reflux,” he explains, adding, “Which can greatly impact appetite, nutrient absorption, and overall food intake.”

Additionally, many neurological conditions impair swallowing, making it difficult for patients to consume adequate amounts of food and heightening the risk of malnutrition. This can lead to common deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, zinc, magnesium, and selenium - all of which play crucial roles in maintaining neurological function.

Nyanumba emphasises the need for more frequent nutritional assessments, typically every 3-6 months, to catch and address any deficiencies early on.

Adapting food textures and presentations, such as blending, mashing, or mincing, can help overcome physical challenges, while using natural spices and making meals visually appealing can stimulate appetite.

Certain nutrients, he says, hold particular importance for maintaining neurological health in the elderly. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, have been proved to support brain function and reduce inflammation.

“Vitamin D, essential for bone health, also plays a role in neurological processes. Magnesium, zinc, and folate are similarly crucial, with deficiencies linked to increased risk of cognitive decline and neurological symptoms,” says Nyanumba.

Caregiver support

The nutritionist further suggests incorporating local Kenyan foods that can help address these nutritional needs, such as tilapia, beans, lentils, sardines, avocado, berries, and fermented porridge.

“These nutrient-dense options are not only beneficial, but also familiar and culturally appropriate for our elderly population.”

However, the challenges faced by the elderly in Kenya extend far beyond just nutrition. Caregiver support and access to quality healthcare remain significant barriers, particularly in rural areas.

Prof Amayo notes that the lack of oversight in nursing homes can lead to mistreatment and inappropriate medication management, exacerbating the already dire situation.

A recent study published in the Journal of the Neurological Sciences examined the prevalence of neurological disorders among the elderly in Kenya. The research, conducted by a team of Kenyan and international researchers, surveyed over 2,000 individuals aged 60 and above across several regions of the country.

The findings were sobering. The overall prevalence of neurological conditions are estimated to be around 23 per cent, with dementia accounting for the largest share at 12 per cent.