When someone you love is diagnosed with dementia, it’s natural to want answers — but one of the hardest battles...
20 February 2026
- [email protected]
- 01442 817117
- Mon to Fri: 8:00am to 5:00pm
When someone you love is diagnosed with dementia, it’s natural to want answers — but one of the hardest battles families often face isn’t only medical, it’s social. A major new analysis from the 2024 World Alzheimer Report, prepared in partnership with the London School of Economics and Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), reveals that misconceptions and stigma around dementia are still widespread — and in many cases getting worse. LSE
Understanding these myths — and how they affect the well-being of people with dementia and their families — is a crucial part of care, compassion, and advocacy.
One of the most persistent false beliefs is that dementia is simply a normal part of growing old. According to the 2024 report, a large majority of people around the world — including in high-income countries — think this way.
This misconception matters because:
What families should know:
Dementia is caused by diseases — most commonly Alzheimer’s disease — that affect the brain, and while age is a risk factor, dementia isn’t simply a normal or harmless part of ageing. Early diagnosis and informed care can improve quality of life and access to support.
The report finds that stigma and discrimination are still major problems for people living with dementia:
Stigma doesn’t just hurt feelings — it affects:
Too often, people with dementia and their loved ones describe feeling ignored, dismissed, or excluded — even by those who want to help.
Another distressing truth the report highlights is that people living with dementia may isolate themselves due to stigma — fearing judgement or rejection.
For families, this can look like:
Isolation feeds loneliness and can worsen symptoms, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.
Tip for families: Encouraging social connection — in ways that feel safe and respectful — can make a big difference to emotional wellbeing.
Another common myth is that moving someone with dementia into care is always the “best” or only option. Report data suggest this belief has grown in recent years — even when it goes against a person’s wishes.
Here’s what families should remember:
The World Alzheimer Report doesn’t just highlight the problems — it suggests practical ways to make real change:
✅ Educate Yourself and Others
Myths persist when people rely on assumptions rather than facts. Learning the true nature of dementia helps you advocate for your loved one.
✅ Talk Openly and Honestly
Sharing your experiences with friends, family, and community can break down barriers and help others understand what dementia really looks like.
✅ Encourage DementiaFriendly Environments
Simple actions — like inclusive community spaces and respectful language — help reduce stigma.
✅ Support Policy and Awareness Initiatives
Efforts like World Alzheimer’s Month (#TimeToActOnDementia) push for better education, support, and public understanding — benefiting individuals and families alike.
Behind every statistic is a person with a unique history, personality, and set of needs. Challenging stigma isn’t just about correcting facts — it’s about honouring dignity, autonomy, and humanity.
As researchers involved in the report have emphasised, boosting awareness alone isn’t enough; we need behaviour change, supportive policies, and community action that includes the voices of people living with dementia and their carers.
Stigma and misunderstanding may be widespread, but they’re not inevitable. With greater awareness, compassion, and active engagement, families and communities can reshape how dementia is viewed and supported — creating environments where people with dementia feel valued, understood, and included.
At Home Care is here to support you in providing safe, respectful, and comfortable support. Let’s ensure warmth, dignity, and wellbeing are never compromised.
When someone you love is diagnosed with dementia, it’s natural to want answers — but one of the hardest battles...
We often hear that "age is just a number," but as the years tick by, maintaining our physical health becomes...
When we think about caring for our ageing loved ones, our minds often jump straight to physical health—managing prescriptions, preventing...