ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION: IOWA CHAPTER FIVE TIPS TO OVERCOME STIGMA AROUND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE By Lauren Livingston, Alzheimer’s Association Facing stigma is a common concern of people living with Alzheimer's and their families. Those with the disease can feel misunderstood because of the myths and misconceptions others have about Alzheimer’s and dementia. Stigma is the use of negative labels to identify a person with a disability or illness, and it exists, in part, because of the lack of public awareness and understanding of the disease. Stigma can prevent people from: • Talking with their family and friends about their symptoms or diagnosis • Seeking medical treatment when symptoms are present • Receiving an early diagnosis or any diagnosis at all • Living the best quality of life possible while they are still able to do so • Making financial, legal and care plans for their future • Benefitting from available treatments • Finding local support and resources • Participating in clinical trials
15 Publizr Home