The Alzheimer Society says that while awareness about dementia has increased, stigma and negative attitudes around it continue to persist.
January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and the society is releasing findings of a new survey kick off its new social awareness campaign “I live with dementia. Let me help you understand” to spark conversations and encourage Canadians to see dementia differently.
Almost 50 per cent of Canadians would not want others to know if they had dementia, says the Leger-led survey, which questioned 1,500 Canadians between the ages of 18 and 65 online. The survey also reveals that 46% of respondents would feel ashamed or embarrassed if they had dementia, while 61% of those surveyed said they would face discrimination of some kind.
The survey also shows that one in four Canadians believe that their friends and family would avoid them if they were diagnosed with dementia, and only 5% of Canadians would learn more about dementia if a family member, friend or co-worker were diagnosed.
“These results validate our thinking, that stigma is one of the biggest barriers for people with dementia to live fully with dignity and respect,” said Pauline Tardif, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
“The findings underscore the work we must still do to end stigma once and for all. There is no shame in having dementia. We can’t let negative perceptions stand in the way of people with dementia seeking help and support. Life without discrimination is a right for anyone affected by this disease.”
To tackle stigma, the Alzheimer Society is letting the experts do the talking – people living with dementia. People like Roger Marple. For this proud father and grandfather, who developed young onset Alzheimer’s three years ago at age 57, his diagnosis was a tough pill to swallow. But with time, Marple overcame his initial shock and sadness. He had too many dreams to pursue.
“I still do things that have meaning in my life, like getting out, playing golf and travelling,” he said. “I’ll continue to enjoy life for as long as I possibly can to the best of my abilities. Isn’t that what we all aspire to do?”
Marple and others invite Canadians to hear their stories and take a few pointers from them on how to be open and accepting towards people with dementia.
Their stories are featured on a dedicated campaign website, where visitors will also find tips on how to be more dementia-friendly, activities to test their knowledge, and other resources to take action against stigma and be better informed about a disease that has the potential to impact everyone.
To help stop stigma and read the full survey, visit ilivewithdementia.ca – and use the hashtag #ilivewithdementia to help spread the word.
