UK charity says that many South Asians with dementia afraid to seek treatment

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The Alzheimer’s Society, a charity based in the UK has suggested that many South Asians with dementia do not come forward for a proper diagnosis due to the stigma attached with it. This has led to many not being able to access proper help and support.

It has been suggested that many South Asians residing in the UK run a higher risk of developing dementia after suffering from other problems like heart diseases, stroke and diabetes. According to the charity, many family members, as well as friends of people with dementia, hold strong beliefs against such a disease which deters them from coming forward and seek treatment.

The Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Society, Kate Lee, told The Guardian, “For anyone with dementia symptoms, getting a timely diagnosis is crucial – only then can they get access to vital treatments and support. But people in the south Asian community have told us the worrying reality is that stigma and taboo are often deterring families from getting support.” Lee adds that if left undiagnosed, living with dementia is considered to be life-threatening and getting treated for it significantly helps avoid “crisis situations”.