JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Research on the perception of dementia has primarily focused on adults, leaving a gap in understanding how children conceptualize this condition. This gap is critical given that children represent the future of a society increasingly affected by the growing prevalence of dementia and related challenges.

Objective:

The primary objective of this study is to assess attitudes toward dementia in a cohort of Spanish primary school children. Secondary objectives include: 1) examining the psychometric properties of the questionnaire developed for this purpose, 2) identifying factors associated with differing attitudes toward dementia, and 3) evaluating children's social desirability and its correlation with questionnaire responses.

Methods:

To address the primary objective, a 23-item Likert-type questionnaire (CANDem: Conocimientos y Actitudes de los Niños españoles hacia la Demencia) was developed through a comprehensive literature review, a pilot study with a convenience sample of 10 children, and expert panel consultation. The study sample will comprise children aged 8 to 11 years enrolled in 4th and 5th grades at six selected schools in the Community of Madrid, Spain. Participants will complete the CANDem questionnaire alongside a social desirability scale. Additional variables, such as current or previous cohabitation with grandparents, will also be collected to explore factors associated with differing attitudes toward dementia.

Results:

This study is not funded. Data collection began in January 2025 and is projected to conclude in January 2026. As of July 2025, 164 participants from three selected schools have been recruited. Data analysis is expected to begin in January 2026, and results are planned for publication in 2027.

Conclusions:

This study represents a feasible and novel initiative that may enhance understanding of children’s attitudes toward dementia. The findings could inform the development of targeted educational interventions aimed at improving care and quality of life for individuals living with dementia.