Scholars Coming Forward with Their Alzheimer’s Stories Helps Reduce Stigma of Dementia

Carol,

You are right on the issue! The stigma is still out there. I think there are 2 situations: the first situation is about the image and pride so the patient does not want to face it or admit it. The second one is about being improper and being a misfit that requires caregiver's divine attention.

Frankly, even Dr. Kao didn't really announce that he has AD like Reagan. His family was saying that subtly. (Typical of any family who cares about great image.)

I think this stigma somehow will stay forever as it is human nature to have pride and dignity.

The only thing that really matters is not to hide it. If one has such stigma and does not face the issue and gets treatment or a proper living arrangement with caregivers, then it is a big porblem (just like the beginning when we tried to help my FIL as he lived alone without any help in 2004/2005.)  I think people will still try to be subtle about unless we were Reagan or Charles Heston who died with AD as well. Celebrity is different and we as common folks are another matter.

The important thing is to educate the public about the right things to do for AD patents and that the stigma for mental illness in the dark age in the 60s or earlier has to go away.

Nina

Thank you for such an interesting article! It was very encouraging! :) Another good thing about famous people sharing their stories is that it can also help raise more money to help fight this disease!!!! We have seen this with Michael J. Fox and Parkinson's Disease (which my dad had), and it's been such a blessing!