The Impact of Cultural Beliefs and Stigma on Dementia Care and Diagnosis: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Dementia is a significant global health issue, yet cultural beliefs and stigma surrounding the condition can profoundly impact diagnosis, care, and management. Cultural differences influence the perception of dementia, and stigma often delays timely diagnosis and effective caregiving. This scoping review investigates how cultural beliefs and stigma affect dementia diagnosis, caregiving responsibilities, treatment-seeking behaviours, and healthcare access across diverse cultural contexts. A systematic search of five databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL) was conducted, focusing on studies published between 2000 and 2024. A total of 37 studies were included in the review, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative research. The findings indicate that in many low- and middle-income countries, dementia is perceived through spiritual or supernatural lenses, resulting in delays in diagnosis and treatment. Stigma was identified as a significant barrier to healthcare access, with both individuals with dementia and their caregivers avoiding medical help due to the fear of social exclusion. In collectivist societies, caregiving responsibilities predominantly fall on families, often leading to emotional and physical strain. Several studies highlighted the success of culturally tailored interventions in reducing stigma and improving dementia awareness. Culturally sensitive strategies, including awareness campaigns and professional training programs, were found to be effective in improving dementia care and reducing stigma. The review underscores the need for culturally appropriate interventions to facilitate early diagnosis and provide better support for families. Future research should focus on developing and evaluating such interventions to improve dementia care across diverse populations.