Understanding Why Some Communities Face Delayed Dementia Diagnosis

Alzheimer's Society

We spent time with Black and Arab community groups to understand why people were being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s later than others, listening directly to older people about their experiences and perceptions of dementia.

By visiting existing community spaces, we created safe, familiar environments where people could speak openly about stigma, cultural beliefs and trust in the medical system.

We then held in‑depth conversations with carers and people living with dementia to uncover the nuanced barriers they face in seeking support and receiving timely diagnosis.

These insights were shared back at an Alzheimer’s Society dementia‑friendly event, bringing their voices directly to stakeholders and medical professionals shaping future services.

Impact:

Real stories from underserved communities helping Alzheimer’s Society understand — and begin to address — the systemic barriers to early dementia diagnosis.