Younger adults with dementia: A strategy to promote awareness and transform perceptions

Abstract

Within modern society, dementia is considered to be an older person's disease yet people younger than 65 years are also diagnosed with this condition. This article describes dementia in the younger person highlighting their experiences and those of their families, along with nurses' attitudes towards and perceptions of this client group. A strategy is proposed to positively influence and enhance the attitudes of health professionals ultimately enhancing the quality of life for younger people with dementia.

Perceptions of stigma among people affected by early- and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease

“…Feelings of financial instability were higher for younger supporters, in line with previous literature on age based differences (Chaston, 2010). The findings show support for both sides of previous age-related evidence…”

“…28 | P a g e (Chaston, 2010;Scodellaro & Pin, 2011), demonstrating the complexity of the topic area.…”

“…Alternatively, Chaston (2010) argued that people with early-onset Alzheimer's disease may experience more stigma than people with late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Having a condition associated with older adults (Van der Flier & Scheltens, 2005) is suggested to lead to 'inverse ageism' (Chaston, 2010).…”

“…In this regard, 'double stigma' (Scodellaro & Pin, 2013) and 'inverse ageism' (Chaston, 2010) may be present yet the way stigma is perceived by the person with Alzheimer's disease needs further exploration. Socioemotional selectivity theory…”

Looking ahead to a future with Alzheimer's disease: coping with the unknown

“…Comparatively, there were other younger people who felt they were better equipped to deal with the condition due to their age. The alternative responses within and between groups highlight the subjectivity of experiences and how age does not necessarily separate people with Alzheimer's disease as much as the previous literature suggests (Chaston, 2010;Scodellaro and Pin, 2013). Instead, there was a shared sense of focusing on each day and making the most of the opportunities available.…”