Dementia is no laughing matter
Dementia is the most joked about medical condition, with the majority of people believing it is acceptable to “make fun” of the condition, a British poll has found.
Dementia is the most joked about medical condition, with the majority of people believing it is acceptable to “make fun” of the condition, a British poll has found.
The Alzheimer’s Society-commissioned survey found 24% of people heard jokes about dementia the most.
In contrast, just 3% said most jokes were made about autism or cancer.
More than half of respondents (55%) claimed dementia is not taken seriously enough by society.
Alarming statistics:
- 55% believe that dementia is not taken seriously enough in society.
- 24% of people say they hear jokes about dementia the most compared to other conditions including autism (3%) and cancer (3%).
- 23% of people say they hear jokes by comedians on the condition.
- 17% of people hear jokes about it from friends and family.
- 33% think that it is acceptable to say someone with dementia is having a ‘senior moment’.
- 22% think that it is acceptable to say someone with dementia is ‘senile’.
- 10% think it is fine to say someone with the condition has ‘lost their marbles’.
- However, only 8% of people actively agree that it is acceptable to make fun of dementia.
British dementia organisations were shocked by the poll’s findings.
“We must tackle this lack of understanding if we are to ensure people with dementia are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” Alzheimer’s Society chief executive officer, Jeremy Hughes, said.
Do Australians make similar jokes about dementia? Share your thoughts on this disturbing poll by commenting in the box below.
