Report Highlights Social Stigma Surrounding Dementia

The social stigma surrounding dementia is impeding early diagnosis, care and research into the disease, according to a new report launched today. The report, New perspectives and approaches to understanding dementia and stigma, is published by the think tank International Longevity Centre UK (ILC-UK) in collaboration with the Medical Research Council (MRC), Alzheimer’s Research UK and the Alzheimer’s Society, supported by pharmaceutical company Pfizer. It shines a light on the impact the fear around dementia has on those living with the condition, their families and carers.

Dr Matthew Norton, Head of Policy at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:
“We are pleased to have contributed to this report, which sheds light on the stigma that still surrounds dementia and the impact this can have on those affected. Despite the far-reaching effects of dementia on individuals and society as a whole, there is still a lack of public awareness and understanding of the condition. Greater awareness could help lift the stigma that is too often still attached to dementia, and research has a role to play in helping people understand the condition. Dementia is not inevitable, but is caused by diseases, and continued investment in research, such as that from the MRC’s Dementias Platform and Alzheimer’s Research UK’s research projects, is vital if we are to beat those diseases.”