Dementia

Abstract

The overall purpose of this module is to increase awareness about the impact of stigma and discriminating attitudes for people living with dementia and their caregivers. A significant demographic shift is occurring world-wide, resulting in the proportion of people over 60 years of age nearly doubling by 2050 from 12 to 22%. The aging population is not homogeneous. Many older adults will enjoy a full and active life in old age, while others will experience declines in physical and mental health. Dementia is one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older adults. Worldwide it is estimated that the number of people with dementia (PWD) will be 82 million in 2030, and 152 million in 2050. It is also estimated that double the number of people (i.e. 164 and 304 million) will be indirectly affected by dementia. This number includes both health/social care workers (i.e. paid caregivers) and family, friends and volunteers (i.e., unpaid caregivers). PWD are challenged by both the symptoms of their illness and discriminatory attitudes and actions of family members, friends, caregivers, and society. For example, dementia and delirium are two separate mental health conditions. Oftentimes caregivers may mistakenly assume an older adult has dementia when in reality the person is experiencing a delirium episode due to an underlying health condition (e.g. infection, dehydration, etc.). Stigmatization associated with dementia is also experienced by paid and unpaid caregivers supporting PWD. The stigma associated with dementia also prevents people from seeking help. This is true for both PWD and their paid and unpaid caregivers. Reducing the discriminatory attitudes towards PWD can potentially contribute to establishing an environment that inspires healthy aging and supports an optimal quality of life for those living with dementia. Additionally, addressing discrimination about dementia will enable paid and unpaid caregivers to provide meaningful support to those in their care.