Behind the Uniform: Barriers and Pathways to Dementia Support in Veterans
Authors: Dew, R., Dowding, A., Aldridge, H., Lucas, E., Tweedy, V., Board, M.
Conference: 37th Global Conference of Alzheimer's Disease International (Lyon, France)
Publication Date: 14/04/2026
Abstract:Background: Despite international literature suggesting links between military service and risk factors for developing dementia, little to no research has explored the experiences of veterans. Furthermore, recent research has highlighted the challenges in accessing veterans living with dementia. It is well-known that help-seeking behaviours within the military and veteran community can be limited, and even further, little is known about what may facilitate or inhibit a veteran seeking help for memory concerns. Considering the heightened exposure to risk factors for developing dementia, understanding this could be crucial to improving timely access to support. Methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, UK veterans were invited to complete an online survey comprising a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Key topic areas included experience in the military (e.g. length of service, branch) and with dementia (personal connections, memory concerns), awareness and attitudes towards dementia, and barriers and enablers to seeking support. Focus group(s) were also conducted to further explore the topics in discussion. Results: Preliminary results strongly suggest influence of military culture and stigma around dementia as key barriers to help-seeking and not wanting to appear “weak”. Increased awareness in the veteran community around dementia and its links to military service may help facilitate veterans seeking help for memory concerns, as well as the importance of veteran-specific support and increasing veteran-friendly services. Data collection/analysis is ongoing at the point of abstract submission. Based on initial findings we co-produced with veterans an animation to raise awareness of dementia.
Conclusion: The final results will be shared at the conference with an animated film co-created with veterans raising awareness about dementia for veterans and military personnel.
Source: Manual