Five million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s disease and related memory loss. As the population ages, that number will increase. Appropriate support services and environments can help them make the most of their remaining abilities.

Yet studies show that people with dementia often feel excluded from everyday life, and this is largely due to the unfortunate stigma associated with the disease. Sadly, some people avoid a friend who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Family, too, can experience the effects of this prejudice. Friends and even some family members sometimes you and do not want to talk about your loved one’s condition.

This stigma is based on ignorance. Studies disprove so many myths about Alzheimer’s disease. For example, many assume that people with dementia are miserable. Yet studies show many people with early-stage Alzheimer’s report having an improved outlook on life. University of Kentucky researcher Dr. Gregory Jicha noted that while depression, denial and despair might come with the diagnosis, many people he studied expressed an appreciation and acceptance of life, lessened concern about failure and strengthened relationships.

It is important to fight this stigma, as we would any prejudice. Negative attitudes harm the quality of life and even stand in the way of a prompt diagnosis, and the best advance planning.

Change is possible. People with dementia and their allies are working to improve the attitudes of the public. More public programs and resources seek to support and meet the needs of people with dementia and to create appropriate opportunities for people with and without memory loss to interact in ways that break down barriers.

A group of people in the Alzheimer’s Association National Early-Stage Advisory Group offers these suggestions about how people with memory loss can help combat the stigma:

Be open and direct.
Engage others in discussions about Alzheimer’s disease and the need for prevention, better treatment and an eventual cure.

Communicate the facts.
Sharing accurate information is key to dispelling misconceptions about the disease. Whether a pamphlet or a link to online content, offer information to help people better understand Alzheimer’s disease.

Seek support and stay connected.
It is important to remain engaged in meaningful relationships and activities. Whether they are family, friends or a support group, a network is critical.

Do not be discouraged.
Myths about the disease are not a reflection of you. See this as an educational opportunity.

Be a part of the solution.
Advocate for yourself and millions of others by speaking out and raising awareness.