The experience of living with dementia is shaped not only by the condition itself, but also by the way people are treated in their everyday lives.  

The findings of the Dementia Awareness Questionnaire show that people living with dementia and their caregivers experience stigma across a wide range of settings. Respondents described situations where they felt misunderstood, excluded or treated differently within families, healthcare and social services, shops, restaurants, banks, public transport and local communities.  

These experiences highlight that stigma is not confined to one environment. It can appear wherever assumptions replace understanding or where communication and services fail to consider people's individual needs.  

At the same time, the survey points to an encouraging message: inclusion is also built through everyday interactions.  

Taking time to listen, speaking directly to the person, showing patience, offering support without making assumptions and creating welcoming environments are simple actions that can have a lasting impact on how people living with dementia experience their communities.  

Building a dementia-inclusive society does not require extraordinary actions. It begins with ordinary moments where people are treated with dignity, respect and understanding.  

Every interaction is an opportunity to make inclusion part of everyday life.