Stigma Associated with Dementia

Question 1

What is Stigma? Name the three types

Answer 1

Stigma is when people have unfair or negative ideas about someone because of who they are or what condition they have.

● Public stigma: When many people in society have negative ideas about a group.

● Self-stigma: When a person believes these negative ideas about themselves and feels ashamed or bad.

● Structural stigma: When laws, rules, or systems treat some people unfairly.

Question 2

Describe effects of Stigma on Dementia

Answer 2

● Feelings of shame and isolation

● Delays in seeking diagnosis and support

● Misunderstanding and miscommunication

● Reduced quality of life

Question 3

Describe negative Stigmatization language

Answer 3

Negative stigmatizing language means using words that make people feel bad or less important.

It happens when we call a person by their illness or situation, like calling a person with dementia “demented,” or someone who uses drugs a “junkie.”

Question 4

What are the effective strategies to combat the impact of stigma on dementia?

Answer 4

● Provide education to correct misunderstandings and reduce fear about dementia.

● Focus on the person and their abilities, not just the dementia diagnosis.

● Use respectful and positive language—do not use negative labels like “demented.”

● Encourage open and honest conversations about dementia.