Abstract

Syndemics occur when diseases cluster and interact and are driven by contexts and socio-economic factors affecting populations. Approaching health in this way enables the development of better solutions. Infections in older people are a major cause of mortality and morbidity and could potentially cluster and interact in dementia. Through a retrospective cohort analysis using secondary care data from one of Europe’s largest mental health and dementia care providers in South London (UK), infections alongside other physical and socio-economic factors were explored to examine the interactions and impact. People with dementia and infections had poorer cognition, higher rates of co-morbidity and ranked significantly higher on deprivation indices compared to those with no infections. Adjusted analytical models indicated that people with dementia and infections also had significantly higher mortality rates compared to those with no infections. Current healthcare models, accessibility and political factors were also explored and explained specific effects. By acknowledging the interactions between dementia, infections and contexts and socio-economic factors we can develop more effective and holistic solutions that have real impact for populations.