Latent profiles and Influencing factors of perceived threat of dementia among older adults

Abstract Background: Perceived dementia threat is closely linked to proactive dementia prevention behaviors among older adults. However, most existing studies conceptualize threat perception as a unidimensional construct, overlooking potential latent subgroups with distinct perceptual characteristics. This study aimed to identify latent profiles of dementia threat perception among older adults and to examine factors associated with subgroup membership. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 older adults (≥60 years) in Nanjing. The Chinese version of the Dementia Threat Scale was used to measure perceived dementia threat. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was applied to identify subgroups, and multinomial logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of profile membership. Results: Three distinct latent profiles emerged: low (58.10%), moderate (22.86%), and high (19.05%) dementia threat perception. Age, living arrangements, monthly income, history of exposure to dementia, dementia prevention knowledge, anxiety, and dementia prevention beliefs were significant predictors of profile membership. Older adults without prior exposure to dementia and with lower anxiety levels were more likely to belong to the low-threat group. In contrast, those living with children, with higher income, greater dementia prevention knowledge, elevated anxiety, and stronger prevention-related health beliefs were more likely to fall into the high-threat group. Conclusion: Older adults show substantial heterogeneity in their perceived dementia threat. Tailored intervention strategies based on subgroup characteristics and associated influencing factors may help enhance dementia threat awareness, promote proactive preventive behaviors, and ultimately reduce the risk of dementia onset.