1.3 Explain how values, beliefs and misunderstandings about dementia can affect attitudes towards individuals

This guide will help you answer the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia Unit 1.3 Explain how values, beliefs and misunderstandings about dementia can affect attitudes towards individuals.

Dementia is a complex condition impacting memory, cognitive abilities, behaviour, and emotions. Our values, beliefs, and misunderstandings about dementia significantly affect our attitudes and actions towards individuals living with the condition. Let’s explore how these factors shape perceptions and interactions, and ultimately, the care provided to those with dementia.

Values and Their Impact on Attitudes

Values are deep-seated principles that guide behaviour and decision-making. They stem from cultural, familial, and societal influences.

Positive Values

When values include respect for the elderly, empathy, and an understanding of person-centred care, attitudes towards individuals with dementia are generally positive. These values encourage:

• Compassionate Care: Recognising and addressing emotional and physical needs.
• Respect for Dignity: Treating individuals as worthy of respect, regardless of their cognitive state.
• Person-Centred Approach: Valuing the person’s history, preferences, and identity.

Negative Values

Conversely, if underlying values lack respect or empathy, detrimental attitudes can emerge. These include:

• Paternalism: Assuming control over individuals’ lives, diminishing their autonomy.
• Stigma: Viewing dementia as shameful or embarrassing, leading to social exclusion.
• Ageism: Holding biased views that devalue older adults, further complicating dementia care.

Beliefs and Their Influence on Perception

Beliefs, often formed through cultural norms, social interactions, and personal experiences, shape how dementia is perceived.

Positive Beliefs

Beliefs grounded in understanding and acceptance foster positive attitudes. Here’s how:

• Normalisation of Ageing: Recognising dementia as a common, natural part of ageing, leading to more acceptance and support.
• Education and Awareness: Believing in the importance of understanding dementia can promote better communication and care strategies.

Negative Beliefs

However, negative beliefs contribute to detrimental attitudes and behaviours:

• Dementia As a Tragedy: Viewing dementia solely as a devastating diagnosis can lead to feelings of hopelessness, impacting the quality of care.
• Stereotyping: Beliefs that all individuals with dementia behave unpredictably or are violent can instil fear and avoidance.

Misunderstandings and Their Consequences

Misunderstandings about dementia are widespread and can actually affect how individuals are treated.

Common Misunderstandings

These include:

• Dementia Equals Memory Loss: While memory loss is a key symptom, dementia encompasses a range of cognitive impairments. Misunderstanding this can lead to inadequate care.
• Infectious Disease: Erroneously believing dementia is contagious can cause isolation and stigma.
• Uniform Experience: Thinking all individuals with dementia respond and behave in the same way negates personalised care needs.

Consequences of Misunderstandings

Such misunderstandings result in several negative outcomes:

• Isolation: Individuals may be socially excluded, reducing their quality of life and mental health.
• Fear: Both caregivers and society may act out of fear rather than understanding, hindering effective support.
• Reduced Investment in Care: Misunderstanding the benefits of care can lead to less investment in supportive environments and training for carers.

Real-Life Implications

Interpersonal Interactions

On a personal level, values, beliefs, and misunderstandings shape day-to-day interactions:

• Communication: Misunderstandings can lead to patronising or infantilizing communication.
• Trust: Negative beliefs or values can erode trust between caregivers and individuals with dementia.

Institutional Impacts

In care settings, these factors impact policies, practices, and culture:

• Training: Beliefs and values about the necessity of training caregivers affect the quality of the educational programmes offered.
• Policies: Misunderstandings might lead to policies that do not adequately support person-centred care or enrich the lived experience of individuals with dementia.

Promoting Positive Change

Education and Awareness

Increasing awareness is important:

• Workshops and Training: Regular, comprehensive training for caregivers and the public on dementia.
• Public Campaigns: Media campaigns to challenge negative beliefs and promote positive values.

Support Systems

Building robust support systems can change perceptions:

• Community Support Groups: Encouraging shared experiences and reducing societal stigma.
• Professional Support: Access to psychological, emotional, and medical support for caregivers and families.

Person-Centred Care

Adopting a person-centred approach can mitigate negative attitudes:

• Individual Care Plans: Recognising unique needs and preferences ensures personalised care.
• Empowerment: Fostering an environment that encourages autonomy and participation in decision-making.

Final Thoughts

Values, beliefs, and misunderstandings profoundly shape attitudes towards individuals with dementia. Positive values and beliefs promote empathy and respect, while misunderstandings and negative beliefs can lead to stigma and inadequate care. Addressing these issues through education, community support, and a person-centred care approach is essential. As health and social care professionals, we must continuously challenge our perspectives and foster environments that respect and support individuals with dementia.

Example answers to unit 1.3 Explain how values, beliefs and misunderstandings about dementia can affect attitudes towards individuals

Example Answer 1

Dementia affects each person differently. It’s important to remember that our values about age and health shape how we treat those with dementia. For example, my cultural background teaches great respect for elders. This promotes better communication and understanding when I care for people with dementia. I always speak to them with kindness and patience, and I listen attentively to their needs, even if they struggle to express themselves clearly.

Example Answer 2

In my experience, negative beliefs can lead to poor care. At my previous workplace, some carers believed that people with dementia were unpredictable and aggressive. This misconception made them fearful and less patient. They avoided spending time with the residents, which increased feelings of isolation and confusion for the individuals with dementia. I think it’s important to address these fears through proper training and education to provide better care.

Example Answer 3

One major misunderstanding I’ve encountered is the idea that dementia only affects memory. While memory loss is a significant symptom, dementia also affects thinking, problem-solving, and behaviour. I once cared for a resident who had trouble recognising everyday objects, not just remembering names or past events. Understanding this helped me provide more appropriate support, like using visual aids and clear instructions to assist him in daily tasks.

Example Answer 4

At our care home, we strive to adopt a person-centred approach. This means we consider each resident’s unique history, preferences, and abilities. I remember going through a resident’s life history and learning that she used to love gardening. By involving her in our small garden’s activities, I noticed she became more engaged and happier. This approach helps break down negative stereotypes and shows the individual beyond the dementia diagnosis.

Example Answer 5

Community support groups are invaluable. I attend a local support group, where carers and families discuss their experiences and learn from each other. One key theme we often talk about is tackling the stigma associated with dementia. Sharing success stories and strategies can dispel myths and promote more compassionate attitudes. It’s comforting to know we’re not alone, and it can positively influence our interactions with those we care for.

Example Answer 6

Professional development is essential in dementia care. I recently completed a course on effective communication strategies for individuals with dementia. The training highlighted the importance of non-verbal communication, such as eye contact and body language. Since implementing these techniques, I’ve found it easier to connect with residents who have advanced dementia. This has improved trust and cooperation, leading to better overall care outcomes.