Scope of anti-stigma programs against Alzheimer’s disease: A scoping review

TL;DR

This paper reviews anti-stigma programs for Alzheimer's disease to identify effective strategies for reducing social stigma.

Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive overview of emerging categories and strategies in anti-stigma interventions for Alzheimer's.

Findings

Key strategies include patient contact, life stories, and intergenerational activities.

Educational programs should focus on understanding the disease and fostering emotional bonds.

Cultural adaptation and multimedia campaigns are important aspects of effective interventions.

Abstract

This study identifies and reports evidence related to key guidelines for intervention programs aimed at reducing social stigma associated with Alzheimer’s Disease. This scoping review followed the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute. The databases searched included: SCOPUS, PubMED, Science Direct, Taylor and Francis, Google Scholar, JBI, Prospero, and Cochrane Library. The STROBE statement was used to organize and draft the protocol. Of the 2275 initial studies, 22 articles were identified for the analysis of emerging categories: social stigma assessment, measurement, and intervention strategies. Of the 2275 initial studies, 22 articles were analysed for the purpose of identifying emerging categories: social stigma assessment, measurement and intervention strategies. Programmes against stigma addressed the following aspects: clinical and epidemiological knowledge and information; emotions, care and impact on patients’ lives; general information on the disease; dementia-friendly communities; a multimedia campaign on stigmatising beliefs; digital platforms; support in the arts; knowledge and clinical aspects; bilingual presentations adapted to the culture; and awareness and knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease. The most common strategies were: patient and intergenerational contact, life stories [vignettes], theatre, music, art, adapting content for culture, curriculum work, discussion groups and health education. The evidence suggests that the content of educational programs and interventions should focus on promoting understanding of the disease, working with groups or peers with the same condition, and generating intergenerational contact, affectionate bonds, and emotional expression to reduce social stigma.

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