09/07/2026
Dementia Mythbusters
There are many myths about dementia, and these myths can shape how people treat those living with it. Sometimes, misunderstanding can lead to fear, stigma, shame, delayed support, or care that forgets the person behind the diagnosis.
So let us gently challenge some common myths.
Myth 1: Dementia is just normal ageing.
Dementia is not simply “getting old.” While memory may change with age, dementia affects memory, thinking, communication, behavior, judgment, and daily life in ways that need attention, understanding, and support.
Myth 2: People with dementia do not understand anything.
This is not true. A person may struggle with words, memory, or reasoning, but they can still feel tone, kindness, impatience, rejection, comfort, and love. Even when communication changes, feelings remain.
Myth 3: There is no point visiting because they will forget.
They may forget the visit, but the feeling of being loved, safe, and included can remain. Your presence still matters. A smile, a hand held gently, familiar music, or sitting together quietly can still bring comfort.
Myth 4: Difficult behavior is intentional.
Many behaviors in dementia are forms of communication. Repetition may be a need for reassurance. Refusing care may come from fear, pain, confusion, embarrassment, or feeling rushed. Instead of asking only, “How do I stop this?” we can ask, “What might they be feeling?”
Myth 5: A person with dementia is no longer themselves.
Dementia changes many things, but it does not erase the person’s humanity, dignity, history, identity, or worth. They are still someone’s parent, spouse, sibling, friend, neighbor, colleague, and loved one.
Myth 6: Care is only about completing tasks.
Good dementia care is not only about bathing, dressing, meals, medication, or safety. It is also about how the person feels during care. Dignity, patience, respect, choice, and compassion are part of care too.
Myth 7: Caregivers should be able to manage everything alone.
No caregiver should be expected to carry dementia care without support. Asking for help is not weakness. Rest is not selfish. The caregiver’s well-being matters too.
Dementia mythbusting is not about correcting people harshly. It is about replacing fear with understanding, stigma with compassion, and assumptions with dignity.
The more we understand dementia, the better we can support the person living with it — and the people caring for them.
Dementia changes lives, but compassion can change the way we care.
