Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the level of knowledge about dementia and to find the related factors in middle-aged adults.
METHOD
The research design was a descriptive study by using a constructive self-report questionnaire with 34 items. Data were collected from 397 middle-aged adults using structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done by SPSS/WIN Programs using frequency, range from minimum to maximum, percentage, mean, SD, chi-square-test, t-test, ANOVA, and Duncan's Multiple Range test.
RESULTS
The rate of correct answer of middle-aged adults was 68.7%, showing the mid-level of knowledge about dementia. There were significant differences according to age, education, marital status, job, income, information and information sources for dementia in middle-aged adults.
CONCLUSION
These results indicate that Korean middle-aged adults need more education and counseling on dementia. Further studies are needed to overcome regionalism in sampling of this study and to develop standard measuring tools for the level of knowledge about dementia.

• Keywords: Dementia; Knowledge; Middle-aged adult