New research show British Columbians have incorrect beliefs and misconceptions about dementia, according to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
Research commissioned by the Society says one in two people believe a dementia diagnosis means the end of a meaningful life, while nearly one in three people believe Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are a natural part of aging.
These are two myths the Alzheimer Society of B.C is actively seeking to challenge.
Meanwhile, more than eight in 10 correctly understand there’s an increased likelihood of depression, stress and financial problems among people caring for someone living with dementia.
And seven out of 10 of us have a personal connection to dementia, whether through their personal or professional life.
The research was done by Leger Canada and surveyed a group of general respondents in addition to respondents from Chinese and South Asian communities.
It also underscored the need for culturally relevant services.
Among people who indicated they would be more likely to connect with the Society if it had resources relevant to their cultural background, the majority said they’d be more likely to reach out for help if they knew they could connect with other people from a similar cultural background who are also affected by dementia, or if they knew the support offered would be from someone who understands their culture.
“My caregiving journey was marked by inadequate supports for South Asian communities,” says Baljit King, who cared for her mother for 12 years.
“Though the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is making headway with new language and culturally-specific supports, more in-language resources are needed.”
Addressing these beliefs, misconceptions and barriers to support is essential to supporting the 134,000 people projected to be living with dementia across the province by 2030.
“In order to be culturally safe, people working with Indigenous Peoples living with dementia need to have a true understanding of the experiences the person that they are serving has had,” says Jana Schulz, a care partner, advocate, dementia education coordinator, social worker and previously-elected official within the Métis Nation of B.C.
“It goes way beyond being trauma informed. Having these understandings can greatly improve the quality of care and quality of life for Indigenous Peoples living with dementia and their care partners.”
Support services like those offered by the Alzheimer Society of B.C. are vital. The organization understands the need for culturally-relevant programming and continues to adapt programs and services to the growing needs of the community.
The charity wants everyone in B.C. to know that if you are affected by dementia, you are not alone. Connecting with other people who understand what you’re going through, increasing education and reaching out for support when you need it can help you to live well, whether you are living with dementia or caring for someone who is.
“Stigma is the biggest barrier to people affected by dementia from the South Asian community finding support early,” says Joti Sandhu, a Support and Education Coordinator with the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
“We want people to know we offer culturally relevant support and to understand that if they reach out early, they can find resources and information to help them face challenges on the dementia journey.”
Anyone affected by dementia, whether professionally or personally, can call the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033 to learn about dementia, progression of the disease, resources in your community and more. For support in Cantonese or Mandarin, call 1-833-674-5007. For support in Punjabi, Hindi or Urdu, call 1-833-674-5003. Learn more at alzheimerbc.org.
To learn more about this study by Leger Canada, visit alzbc.org/legerreport2024.
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