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Though stigma against dementia may seem to most obviously target the individuals with dementia themselves, caregivers often bear the brunt of the negativity behind the scenes.

Challenging the Stigma of Dementia

Dementia is a condition that affects millions of individuals and their families around the world. Yet, despite its prevalence, dementia remains overwhelmed in stigma and misunderstanding. In pop culture, dementia is often used as a punchline, or even an insult against older public figures. In day-to-day life, people who encounter individuals with dementia may become annoyed and frustrated, and try to avoid the situation, even if the individual needs help. The stigma can also affect caregivers: if a loved one with dementia is exhibiting strange or socially inappropriate behavior in public, for example, people may blame the caregiver for not “controlling” their loved one or make the caregiver feel ashamed or embarrassed. 

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By Julie Hayes | 11/15/2023

A group of older adults enjoying a conversation over a meal

The Power of Memory Cafés for Dementia Care

Most communities have plenty of gathering spaces available for people to meet up, chat, share a meal and take a break in a relaxing, supportive environment. But for people with dementia and their caregivers, finding a truly safe space out in the community can be a lot more challenging. Due to stigma and lack of knowledge, many people in the general public aren’t sure how to interact with someone with dementia, and even business owners may be at a loss to handle a situation where someone with dementia is distressed, or struggles to make a purchase. Aware of these challenges, caregivers may hesitate to bring a loved one into the community, unintentionally putting them at risk of social isolation.

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By Julie Hayes | 10/16/2023

An older adult examining their medication

Why Health Literacy Matters for Older Adults

Health literacy—the ability to access, understand and use health information—is a key part of living a healthy and fulfilling life, especially for older adults. After all, the more we understand about health, the more likely we are to recognize risk signs, take preventative measures against common diseases, make informed decisions about our own health and communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals.

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By Julie Hayes | 10/16/2023

A back view of a caregiver and older loved one embracing while sitting on a bed

Navigating Hospice Care for Loved Ones with Dementia in the End Stages

Dementia is often described as “the long goodbye,” as those with the condition tend to live with it for many years before reaching the advanced stages. This prolonged journey can leave caregivers wondering when they should begin to consider transitioning their loved one to hospice care.

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By Julie Hayes | 09/15/2023

A caregiver drinking tea with her mother

Things to Look for When Visiting an Older Loved One to Assess Wellbeing

As your loved one ages, you’re likely to find yourself worrying more about their wellbeing. Maybe you’re concerned about issues of them living safely in their current home, or taking care of themselves without in-home support. Or maybe you’re anxious about the possibility of memory loss, and early signs of dementia developing without anyone around to notice. These concerns are especially common for long-distance caregivers—who make up roughly 15 percent of all family caregivers.

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By Julie Hayes | 09/15/2023