The World Alzheimer Report 2024, published by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), presents a vital and deeply human look into how global attitudes toward dementia have changed over the past five years. Based on responses from over 40,000 participants across 166 countries, the report highlights that while awareness has improved in some areas, stigma and misunderstanding continue to significantly impact the lives of those living with dementia and their families.
The 2024 report is a follow-up to ADI’s landmark 2019 survey on dementia attitudes and stigma. This year's findings reveal a concerning rise in the belief that dementia is a normal part of aging - up from 66% in 2019 to 80% among the general public in 2024, and 65% among healthcare professionals. This misconception delays diagnosis, limits access to support, and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
Encouragingly, more people now recognize the link between lifestyle factors and dementia risk. In high-income countries, over 61% believe dementia is linked to unhealthy lifestyles, a significant rise suggesting that public health messaging is starting to land. However, in lower-income countries, belief in lifestyle-related dementia prevention has decreased, underlining the global disparity in education and access to resources.
The report introduces a multidimensional understanding of stigma. It outlines five types: public, self, courtesy, affiliate, and structural stigma - each creating barriers to support, inclusion, and quality of life. Over 88% of people with dementia reported experiencing discrimination, and 31% avoid social situations due to fear of judgment. Similarly, 41% of carers avoid travel, and nearly half stop accepting invitations to avoid stigma-related stress.
These findings also emphasize the critical role of advocacy. Over 80% of the general public believe their vote can influence dementia support policies. This civic optimism could drive real change if harnessed effectively.
ADI’s recommendations call for urgent action at multiple levels:
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Public: Awareness campaigns must clearly debunk myths like "dementia is normal aging" and offer behavior-based communication tools for interacting compassionately with people who have dementia.
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Structural: Governments must invest in inclusive national dementia plans and improve healthcare training. Policies must actively dismantle systemic discrimination and ensure access to diagnosis and treatment.
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Individual: Including the voices of those with lived experience is crucial. Carers also need support systems that acknowledge their emotional and social isolation.
While progress is evident in some areas, the report makes it clear: stigma continues to shape lives, delay care, and cause harm. Ending dementia stigma will take a unified global effort across sectors, professions, and communities.
Read the full report here:
World Alzheimer Report 2024 – Alzheimer’s Disease International
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