Why It Matters More Than Ever
Every January, Canadians observe Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a national campaign led by the Alzheimer Society of Canada to increase understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. While awareness has grown over the years, stigma around dementia remains one of the biggest barriers faced by people living with the condition and those who care for them.
Dementia is not just a medical diagnosis. It is a life‑changing experience that affects memory, thinking, communication, emotions, and daily living. In Canada, hundreds of thousands of people are living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, and millions more are impacted as family caregivers, friends, and care partners.
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is a reminder that education, compassion, and inclusion can change lives. By talking openly about dementia and challenging harmful myths, we can build safer, more supportive communities where no one is forgotten.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but it is not the only one. Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of conditions that affect the brain, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Common symptoms may include:
- Memory loss that affects daily life
- Difficulty with problem‑solving or decision‑making
- Changes in mood, behaviour, or personality
- Challenges with communication and understanding
It is important to understand that dementia is not a normal part of aging. While the risk increases with age, people of all backgrounds can be affected. Many individuals continue to live meaningful, engaged lives for years after diagnosis when they receive the right support.
What Is Dementia Stigma?
Stigma against dementia refers to negative beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours directed at people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Stigma often comes from fear, misinformation, and lack of exposure to accurate education.
Examples of dementia stigma include:
- Assuming someone with dementia cannot make decisions
- Avoiding conversations or social interactions
- Speaking to caregivers instead of the person living with dementia
- Treating individuals as if they have lost their identity
Stigma can be subtle or obvious, but its impact is always serious. It affects mental health, self‑esteem, and quality of life.
The Real Impact of Stigma on People Living With Dementia
Dementia stigma does more than hurt feelings. It creates real barriers to care, connection, and dignity.
Many people delay seeking medical help because they fear being judged or treated differently. Others experience social isolation after diagnosis, losing friendships, employment opportunities, and community involvement.
For caregivers, stigma can increase stress, burnout, and feelings of loneliness. Family members may feel unsupported or misunderstood, even as they manage complex emotional and physical demands.
Ending stigma is not optional. It is essential to improving outcomes for people living with dementia and those who care for them.
“Forget No One”
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is built around a powerful message: Forget No One.
The forget‑me‑not flower has become a symbol of dementia awareness, representing memory, love, and connection. The message reminds us that a dementia diagnosis does not erase a person’s value, voice, or humanity.
People living with dementia are still parents, partners, workers, artists, neighbours, and friends. Awareness means recognizing the person first — not the disease.
Why Dementia Awareness Is a Public Health Priority
Dementia is one of the fastest‑growing health challenges in Canada. As the population ages, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias will continue to rise.
Raising dementia awareness helps:
- Promote early diagnosis and treatment
- Encourage planning and access to community supports
- Reduce fear and misinformation
- Improve quality of life for people living with dementia
Public awareness also supports better workplace policies, caregiver recognition, and inclusive community design.
How Education Helps End Alzheimer’s Stigma
Education is one of the most effective tools for reducing stigma. When people understand dementia, fear decreases and empathy grows.
Learning the facts helps challenge common myths, such as:
- Dementia means a person is no longer aware
- People with dementia cannot communicate
- Life ends after diagnosis
In reality, many people living with dementia can express their needs, emotions, and preferences — especially when supported with patience and respect.
The Role of Caregivers in Dementia Awareness
Family caregivers and professional caregivers play a vital role in supporting people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. They also experience stigma, often feeling invisible or unsupported.
Recognizing caregivers means:
- Acknowledging their emotional and physical labour
- Encouraging respite and mental health support
- Including them in conversations about care planning
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is also a time to thank caregivers and remind them they are not alone.
How Communities Can Support People Living With Dementia
Dementia‑inclusive communities are built on understanding, accessibility, and compassion.
Supportive communities:
- Use clear signage and accessible spaces
- Train staff and volunteers in dementia awareness
- Encourage social inclusion and participation
- Promote respectful communication
Small changes in attitudes and environments can make a significant difference in daily life for someone living with dementia.
Simple Ways You Can Help Reduce Dementia Stigma
Everyone can help end Alzheimer’s stigma, even without medical training.
You can make a difference by:
- Learning about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- Using respectful, person‑first language
- Listening to the voices of people living with dementia
- Correcting misinformation when you hear it
- Showing patience, kindness, and understanding
Awareness starts with everyday actions.
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is more than a campaign. It is a call to change how we think, speak, and act.
By challenging stigma, sharing accurate information, and supporting caregivers, we help create a future where people living with dementia are respected, included, and supported at every stage of their journey.
No one should feel ashamed of a diagnosis. No one should feel forgotten.
This January and every month, let’s continue to learn, speak up, and stand together for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
📞 For families seeking caregiving support/services: Our compassionate caregivers are here to help. Call us at (647) 771.2273.