This is according to the latest findings from the World Alzheimer Report 2024, published by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) along with Dementia Australia, who highlighting the need for awareness.
The report highlights persistent stigma and a lack of understanding surrounding dementia, impacting diagnosis and access to care, as ADI CEO Paola Barbarino explains.
“This inaccurate view of dementia is a major concern, particularly from healthcare professionals, as it can delay diagnosis and access to the right treatment, care, and support.”
Ms Barbarino emphasised the importance of education, especially as new treatments are becoming available.
“We need our healthcare professionals to more readily understand that dementia is a medical condition caused by a set of diseases, Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent, so that a correct diagnosis can be given.”
Key findings include:
- 88 per cent of individuals living with dementia reported experiencing discrimination, up from 83 per cent in 2019.
- A notable 31 per cent of people living with dementia avoid social situations due to concerns about others’ reactions.
- More than 58 per cent of the public now believe that an unhealthy lifestyle can contribute to dementia, reflecting a positive shift in awareness.
Speaking to Australian Ageing Agenda during Dementia Action Week (16-22 September), Professor Tanya Buchanan, CEO of Dementia Australia, emphasised the importance of community involvement.
“People living in the community are the most common source of discrimination towards people living with dementia. Paradoxically, the community is where the power lies – they are the solution,” she told AAA.
Buchanan highlighted the urgency for increased awareness, stating, “A lack of knowledge can lead to stigma, discrimination, and social isolation that can have profound impacts on the 421,000 Australians with dementia – two in three of whom are estimated to be living in the community.”
She called for communities and governments to take urgent action to educate the public and reduce misconceptions.
“We must increase our knowledge and understanding and work with people with dementia to support them to remain part of their communities. The early signs of dementia can be very subtle, and we need to ensure that people know how to identify these signs and seek help,” Buchanan told AAA.
Dementia Advocate Steve Grady shared his personal experience, stating, “I was diagnosed with Younger Onset Dementia at the age of 60… I had difficulty accepting this diagnosis because I did not fit the stereotype dementia sufferer.”
Mr Grady pointed out that societal perceptions often exclude those like him from the narrative.
“I’ve had people say to me, ‘you don’t have dementia’ because I don’t fit their stereotype of someone living with dementia,” he told AAA.
Despite these challenges, there is hope. More than 80 per cent of respondents believe they can influence dementia support through their votes, and over 90 per cent indicated they would seek a diagnosis if disease-modifying treatments were available. This proactive stance is crucial, as the report shows that stigma continues to affect social engagement, which is vital for the well-being of individuals with dementia.
As Barbarino says, “In 2019, we said it was time to break the taboo and talk about dementia. Now is the time to act.”
For resources on dementia and support options, visit dementia.org.au or contact the National Dementia Helpline at 1800 100 500.
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