Determination of Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Knowledge and Stigma Levels of Adult Individuals

Abstract

Aim: In Türkiye, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementia (ADRD) are among the diseases that should be addressed as a priority in terms of public health. What is known about the level of AD awareness and stigma related AD, especially among Turkish adults, is insufficient. The contribution of these two important factors to the disease burden and their impact on case finding and treatment effectiveness are unknown. In this regard, the aim of the study is to determine the knowledge and stigma levels of adults and older adults regarding AD. Materials and Methods: A descriptive and analytical design was used. A total of 888 adult and older adult individuals participated in the study. Data were collected with a questionnaire, Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and Perceived Stigma Against AD Survey (STIGMA-AD). Results: The average age of the participants is 49.75 (8.89), 85.7% are between the ages of 40-59, 64.1% are women, 60.8% are married, and 51.5% are at basic education level. The average ADKS total score of adults and older adults participating in the study is 16.97 (2.47). The average STIGMA-AD total score of adults and older adults participating in the study is 21.05 (3.69). Conclusion: Serious knowledge gaps have been noted among Turkish adults and older adults in both general AD and its sub-dimensions. The level of AD-related stigma is high both in total and in all sub-dimensions. In this study, no significant relationship was found between AD knowledge and stigma.