Media Representation Of Dementia: Confronting The Stigma

Dementia generally refers to a group of symptoms associated with several conditions affecting brain structure and function, such as Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, and vascular dementia. Symptoms of dementia often vary between individuals and typically present according to the area of the brain that is affected. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates more than 55 million people around the world have dementia, with approximately 10 million new cases emerging every year. 

Despite its prevalence, there may still be misconceptions and myths surrounding dementia that can create stigma and difficulties for the individuals living with it, as well as their families. Some of these myths can be perpetuated by media discourse. 

Stigmas around dementia can create barriers to treatment

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Media representation in news stories, entertainment, and social media can shape public perceptions and attitudes toward dementia in many ways, and it can be important to seek out sources that provide unbiased, accurate information. A licensed mental health professional, whether in person or online, may be able to answer further questions about dementia and help individuals cope with any associated challenges they may be experiencing.

A brief overview of dementia

Dementia can be considered a chronic condition, and in most cases, symptoms worsen with time. It typically emerges in individuals aged 65 and older. However, there are cases of early-onset dementia that may affect people as young as in their mid-30s. 

Dementia symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually include the following:

• Memory loss: This might involve difficulty remembering newly learned information and once-familiar names, dates, and places. In the early stages, the individual may recall forgotten information later.
• Confusion and disorientation: Individuals with dementia might have trouble understanding what day it is or find themselves lost in a familiar location, such as their neighborhood or the grocery store.
• Diminished focus and concentration: Dementia sometimes makes it difficult for individuals to keep up with a conversation or stay focused on activities that require attention, like reading a book, solving a puzzle, or watching a TV show.
• Communication and speech problems: People with dementia might forget or misplace words and have trouble holding a conversation.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks: People with dementia might have difficulty carrying out responsibilities like doing household chores, preparing meals, or paying bills. 
• Impaired judgment: Dementia can affect an individual's ability to make sound decisions. For example, they might give away money, misinterpret physical symptoms that need medical attention, or dress inappropriately for the weather. 
• Challenges with balance, coordination, and movement: Walking, standing, or sitting without assistance may become more difficult as dementia progresses. 
• Changes in behavior and mood: Some people with dementia may present unusual emotional symptoms, such as sudden crying or anger, withdrawal from others, anxiety and fear, or suspicion of others. They might exhibit risky or inappropriate behaviors or become physically or verbally abusive in some cases.

Common dementia myths

The propagation of misinformation about dementia can come from many sources, including misrepresentation in news articles, cultural narratives, or overgeneralization. Here are a few inaccurate things you may have heard about dementia.

• Only older adults get dementia.

Early-onset and alcohol-related dementias can emerge earlier in life. Some neurological conditions, like tumors and traumatic brain injury (TBI), can also result in dementia-like symptoms, regardless of age. 

• People with dementia can't understand what's happening to them.

Individuals with dementia are often portrayed as being oblivious and unaware of their condition, but many in the early stages are aware of the symptoms they’re experiencing. For example, some might realize they're having more trouble remembering dates or names. They may notice it's more challenging to find words or hold conversations. Others might recognize they're having difficulty with practical, day-to-day activities they once took for granted, like driving, grocery shopping, or caring for the home.

• People with dementia are always aggressive and violent.

While it's true that aggression and verbal or physical outbursts can be one symptom of dementia in the later stages, this usually isn’t common.

• People with dementia can't live an active life.

People with dementia can maintain an active lifestyle and even preserve independence in the earlier stages. Research shows that individuals with dementia who get plenty of exercise, maintain nutritious eating habits, engage in cognitively stimulating activities, and stay social can remain active for a longer period of time.

• There's nothing one can do to help people with dementia.

Some may believe there's nothing they can do to promote well-being in an individual once they have received a dementia diagnosis. However, people with dementia can benefit from the care and support of their friends and loved ones throughout each stage.

The stigma of dementia in the media

Whether it's due to the "entertainment factor," a lack of education and awareness, or fear of mental illness in general, inaccurate representations of dementia tend to be common in the media. Here are a few ways the media can shape public perception and spread stigma about dementia.

Reinforcing stereotypes and misconceptions

Many movies, TV shows, and news reports portray individuals with dementia as always being disoriented or confused. They may depict them as constantly lost, forgetful, or unable to function independently. In reality, symptoms can vary widely, and individuals with dementia may have moments of coherence and clarity.

Trivializing the challenges of dementia

Some media portrayals of dementia may utilize humor to address the topic, perhaps trivializing the challenges faced by individuals living with the condition and their caregivers. This can perpetuate stigma and misconceptions around the seriousness of the condition. 

Stigmatizing language and imagery

The use of stigmatizing language or imagery in media representations of dementia can contribute to negative attitudes and prejudices toward individuals with the condition. For example, media outlets may use stigmatizing terms  like "crazy," "demented," or "senile." In some cases, dementia is used as an insult for political ridicule in the media. This can be dehumanizing and hurtful, and it may reinforce negative stereotypes that can result in social isolation, discrimination, and barriers to support and care.

Spreading misinformation about causes, treatments, and outcomes

Inaccurate or sensationalized portrayals of dementia in the media can perpetuate myths and misinformation about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of the condition, potentially creating confusion, fear, and misconceptions while hindering awareness and support efforts.

One-sided portrayals of individuals with dementia

The news media often emphasizes the difficulties and hardships of living with dementia while overlooking the strengths, resilience, and dignity of individuals affected by the condition. This one-sided portrayal can contribute to fear, pity, and negative attitudes toward those with dementia. It may also deter individuals from seeking a diagnosis.

Promoting a positive, accurate representation of dementia

While sources like social media and news outlets can spread stigma, it may be possible to ensure the news media challenges stereotypes and negative beliefs and promotes public awareness of dementia-related concerns.

A productive first step may be informative communication between media representatives, healthcare providers, researchers, and advocacy organizations specializing in dementia. This may ensure their portrayals are sensitive, accurate, and informed by the latest dementia research and caregiving best practices.

Other strategies may include the following:

• Using respectful, person-centered language that acknowledges the humanity and dignity of people living with dementia
• Spotlighting the diverse experiences, challenges, and strengths of individuals living with dementia
• Highlighting stories featuring experiences of resilience, creativity, and connection in people with dementia
• Promoting awareness of dementia care, advocating for policy changes, and supporting initiatives that promote dementia-friendly communities

Stigmas around dementia can create barriers to treatment

Receive nonjudgmental support in therapy

Seeking mental health support for dementia

If you or a loved one are struggling with challenges related to dementia, it can be beneficial to seek support. It may be wise to consult a healthcare specialist experienced in advising individuals with dementia and their families on how to care for their daily physical needs. 

An important component of effective, holistic treatment may be to partner with a mental health specialist who has experience helping individuals with dementia and their families care for their mental and emotional well-being. 

Many individuals and their loved ones choose to seek guidance through online therapy platforms because of their convenience, flexibility, and affordability. Virtual therapy can provide individuals with the opportunity to engage in sessions with a licensed mental health professional from the comfort of home without the need to commute to in-office appointments. Online therapy typically offers flexible scheduling options and is often more affordable than conventional therapy without insurance coverage. 

While more studies may be needed on the efficacy of online therapy specifically for dementia, research suggests that online therapy tends to be just as effective as its in-person counterpart.

In addition, studies report that online therapy can reduce the stress levels, anxiety, and depression symptoms of individuals who act as caretakers for people with dementia.