Dementia related stigma

Dementia related stigma

Experiences and management of dementia-related stigma in an Australian population: implications for practice

Professor Horner presents the findings of a research project which examined how people with dementia and their carers (relative or family) experience and manage stigma associated with their diagnosis.

The findings indicated the presence of different dimensions of stigma; namely, social rejection, internalised shame, social isolation and double stigma (age and dementia) and courtesy stigma.

Ways to cope with dementia related stigma included psychological and practical means; seeking support through dementia specific organisations; and building knowledge about the disease through self education and education of the general public.

The findings provide lessons for health professionals, and the wider community as well as those living with dementia.

A WADTSC seminar presentation by Professor Barbara Horner, Director, Centre for Research on Ageing, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute on 25 May 2011.

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