Our attitudes toward dementia - colloquial language matters
What is it about?
Looking at how people use the word dementia in colloquial speech, we study how people understand this word and consequently, this condition. We describe how common definition of 'dementia' can influence lay perceptions and beliefs about this disease and whether it may possibly be the basis for the stigma.
Why is it important?
Our interdisciplinary approach shows that the phenomenon of dementia goes beyond the field of medicine. The use of linguistic methods provided novel conclusions, which can be implemented in clinical practice and health promotion. Beliefs, attitudes and experiences reflected in common language provide insights into social perceptions of dementia. The results highlight that the stereotype of dementia is burdened with negative characteristics that can perpetuate the stigma. We describe which common beliefs should be addressed to support the creation of a more dementia-friendly society.