Research has revealed the most common misconceptions about dementia – with 21% wrongly believing that Alzheimer's is simply another name for the same condition.
“Dementia” is an umbrella term for a number of conditions, with “Alzheimer's disease” being the most common of these – starting with mild memory loss, and deteriorating to the point where the sufferer can no longer respond to others, or to their surroundings.
Other common symptoms of dementia conditions include difficulty in thinking, remembering, or decision-making, which can affect the daily lives of those who have dementia.
However, another common misconception of the condition is that it is always associated with memory loss (34%).
And 14%, of the 2,000 adults polled, assume that those with dementia cannot live a meaningful life.
The research was commissioned by nationwide care home provider and dementia experts, Care UK, in a bid to debunk these myths and provide vital support to families whose loved ones have been diagnosed with the condition.
The brand has also released a first-of-its kind guide to help those affected navigate the dementia journey.
Suzanne Mumford, head of nursing, care, and dementia services at Care UK, said: “There are plenty of misconceptions when it comes to dementia and what this means for the person living with it and their family.
“Often, they come from reading something online or word-of-mouth, rather than experts or trusted sources.
“In reality, dementia is a condition that can be managed to ensure those who live with it can continue to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives, and can be supported to still do the things they love – and that’s why we’ve launched our “one step at a time” video guide.
“Featuring tips from our experts, but also testimonies of residents’ families, it is designed to help people navigate through the dementia journey – from dealing with the initial diagnosis, to learning how to live well with dementia, while also incorporating advice aimed at carers to help them look after themselves.”
Just over a third (34%) don’t know very much about dementia or have much experience with it.
And it emerged 67% admit they should know more about the condition than they currently do – while 68% feel that the public in general should know more.
Despite this, 72% haven’t ever made a conscious effort to learn more about the diagnosis, and 23% claim they are unfamiliar with its symptoms.
Nearly a fifth (21%) don’t know memory loss is associated with dementia, and a further 32% are unaware confusion is also a key sign.
Nearly half (47%) would turn to the internet first if they had questions about the illness, while just 34% would seek medical advice.
When asked if any of their loved ones have ever been recognised with the condition, 36% said yes – with 91% of those agreeing it was one of the hardest things they’ve ever gone through.
Seeing them become a different person, watching them lose their sense of self, and having to be patient, were cited as the most challenging aspects of providing care.
Almost two-thirds (62%) of those polled, via OnePoll, are afraid of developing dementia when they get older, with more than one in ten (11%) starting to worry about this in their 20s – as 17% believe that if a family member develops the condition, it means they will too.
But 32% say they have an “it won’t happen to me” attitude – and, despite people’s perceptions, 43% believe living with dementia isn’t always as doom and gloom as it first seems.
Suzanne Mumford added: “There are so many ways people can live active and fulfilling lives after being diagnosed with the condition, and we find that most people don’t know just how impactful the small changes can be – from diet adjustment, to physical and mental exercise.
“With this guide, we hope to provide knowledge and relieve some of the pressures people face after one of their loved ones is diagnosed with the condition.”
Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, Angela Rippon, who is partnering with Care UK to launch the guide, said: “I understand the feeling that families experience when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, as it's a difficult time, and easy to feel powerless and alone.
“There are numerous common misconceptions about dementia, and while it may be difficult to receive a diagnosis, it’s important to remember that it can also be the start of a new journey.
“I believe that raising awareness about the symptoms of dementia, and what it's like to live with the condition, is incredibly important.
“I'd like to encourage everyone to explore Care UK's video guide so we can all work together to make our society more dementia friendly.”
TOP FIVE MISCONCEPTIONS OF DEMENTIA:
- Dementia always includes memory loss
- If someone in my family is living with dementia, I am likely to develop it as well
- People living with dementia can't lead a meaningful life
- Dementia can be prevented
- Dementia only affects people in their 60s or above
