Understanding Dementia Stigma Through Personal Stories
Author Information
Author(s): Marnfeldt Kelly
Primary Institution: University of Southern California
Hypothesis
How does active participation in awareness campaigns influence the feelings and experiences of stigma among people with dementia?
Conclusion
People with dementia feel more included and supported when they participate in awareness activities, which helps reduce stigma.
Supporting Evidence
- 10 million people are diagnosed with dementia each year.
- Feelings of grief and fear of decline are common among those diagnosed.
- PWD are often absent from stigma-reduction campaigns.
- Active participation in campaigns fosters humanization and shifts attitudes.
Takeaway
When people with dementia share their stories and get involved in campaigns, it helps them feel better and less alone.
Methodology
Netnographic methods were used to analyze 2,946 diary entries from an online platform.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-selection of participants who chose to share their experiences.
Limitations
The study relies on archived reflections, which may not capture all perspectives.
Participant Demographics
109 individuals contributed diary entries, with varying numbers of entries per person.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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