In our society, dementia is still poorly understood and often viewed in an agnostic, negative light. “Social media’s impact on dementia caregiving and awareness” : Expert exchanges between Be Light Care Consulting, Dementia Darling, WillGather and the fitness Gourmet
In the digital age, social media has become a surprising yet powerful tool in raising awareness and supporting caregivers of those living with dementia. The podcast Social Media’s impact on Dementia Caregiving and Awareness explores how platforms like Instagram and TikTok are reshaping the conversation around dementia care.
“Social Media’s impact on Dementia Caregiving and Awareness”, expert exchanges with the participation of:
- Adria THOMPSON – Founder of Be Light Care Consulting
- Nicole WILL – Founder of willGather
- Carrie AALBERTS – Founder of Dementia Darling
“Misinformation is a constant challenge,” notes Adria Thompson, citing myths like the claim that people with dementia lose the ability to read. These inaccuracies not only mislead caregivers but also reinforce outdated perceptions of the condition. The podcast urges content creators to prioritize accuracy and empathy, ensuring their content educates without exploiting.
Reframing aging and dementia
The podcast also tackles the broader societal stigma surrounding ageing and dementia, framing them as natural parts of life rather than sources of fear or shame. Ageism, often dubbed the “last frontier of bigotry,” influences how society perceives dementia, associating it with loss of identity and value. By shifting language and perspectives, the podcast argues, we can replace fear with understanding and compassion.
Terms like “denial,” often used to describe someone who doesn’t recognize their condition, are discussed as problematic. Instead, the podcast highlights anosognosia, a medical condition that impairs self-awareness, to foster greater patience and empathy in caregiving relationships.
A call to action for caregivers and creators
The podcast concludes with a powerful call to action for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and content creators. By leveraging social media responsibly, caregivers can find not only advice but also validation for their emotional struggles. Meanwhile, creators are encouraged to produce inclusive, culturally sensitive content that reflects diverse caregiving practices around the world.
The hosts celebrate the potential of social platforms to inspire collaboration and innovation in dementia care. From AI-driven early detection tools to cross-cultural initiatives like the Walk for Dementia on the Camino de Santiago, technology and community efforts are converging to create meaningful change.
Dementia Caregiving : Empowering a global audience
Social Media’s impact on Dementia Caregiving and Awareness is more than just a discussion between experts, it’s a movement to redefine how we approach caregiving, ageing, and dementia advocacy. It calls for a balance between celebrating the resilience of those affected and addressing the urgent need for resources and recognition for caregivers. Because without them, nothing can progress. Many caregivers will die before those they care for, because they support them on a daily basis, but they receive no support. Dementia caregivers are not alone, and should never be.
By amplifying voices across cultures and disciplines, the podcast showcases the universal nature of caregiving and the transformative power of digital tools in creating a more compassionate world. Available on major platforms, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone invested in building awareness, spreading empathy, and supporting the global dementia Care community.
“Social Media’s impact on Dementia Caregiving and Awareness”: the replay
Published by the Editorial Staff on