Dementia stigma in the United States: variation by target gender, degree of impairment, and respondent characteristics.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The rising prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) poses major public health concerns. Public knowledge about ADRD diverges from scientific consensus, and consequently, public stigma presents barriers to diagnosis and care.

Method

This study addresses ADRD stigma in the United States using the well-established vignette approach. A stratified quota sample of 1115 adults matching national demographics were randomly assigned to one of six vignettes. Symptoms of the vignette character mirrored the presentation of ADRD and were reviewed by geriatric neuropsychologists for accuracy.

Results

Apart from small vignette effects, stigma was shaped by respondent characteristics. Higher stigma was predicted by less knowledge, being male, non-Whi

SUBMITTER: Hamilton LJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12897566 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan-Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature