Gian Pal, MD, MS

Dr. Pal is a board-certified neurologist and movement disorders specialist. He received his MD from Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, completed his residency in neurology at Georgetown University Hospital, and received his MS in clinical research from Rush University Medical College where he also completed his fellowship training in movement disorders.  He has served as principal investigator for multicenter studies funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Parkinson Study Group (PSG) and has conducted investigator-initiated research examining how people with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions are impacted by cognitive dysfunction.  

Project Title: Social networks and determinants of health behaviors in South Asians with ADRDs 

Full Community Brief

---

Social Networks and Health in People Living with Dementia

Gian Pal, Cui Yang, Sunanda Gaur

Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers University School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This study seeks to understand how dementia affects the social networks, caregiving experiences, and health behaviors of South Asians living in the U.S., compared with non–South Asian individuals. The project aims to identify differences in social support, cultural attitudes, and knowledge that may influence care quality and access. This study contributes to the development of culturally sensitive dementia education and support programs.

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?

There is limited research on how dementia affects the South Asian community, one of the fastest-growing populations in the United States, including individuals from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Social connections are critical for maintaining health and quality of life in people with cognitive decline, yet South Asians often rely on small, family-centered networks and may face language, cultural, and stigma-related barriers to care. These challenges can delay diagnosis, increase caregiver stress, and worsen health inequities. Additionally, there is a lack of culturally tailored education and support strategies for South Asian families affected by dementia.

KEY FINDINGS

• Preliminary data show that regardless of ethnicity, those living with dementia often experience limited social engagement beyond their immediate family. Caregivers report feelings of isolation and a lack of understanding from peers and community members.
• Expectations to maintain privacy, combined with stigma surrounding cognitive illness, may discourage families from seeking help or talking openly about dementia. Community engagement through our study has shown that families are eager to share their experiences.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Caregiver resources may help increase understanding of early dementia signs and caregiving support.
• It is important to strengthen community and caregiver support networks, such as within places of worship and community centers.
• Sustainable and collaborative academic–community partnerships may increase participation in dementia research and outreach.