Rabbi Zvi Arnon Highlights Social Stigma and Isolation Faced by Dementia Families in Israel

Rabbi Zvi Arnon, head of the Sanctity of Life Department at the Po'eh Institute, revealed that thousands of families in Israel conceal dementia diagnoses from their communities, leading to significant emotional and physical strain. He explained that the desire to keep the illness secret often results in caregiver burnout and social isolation. Arnon noted that while physical disabilities receive public understanding and support, neurological conditions like dementia are frequently hidden due to stigma and misunderstanding.

Arnon described dementia as a neurological disease caused by blocked brain capillaries and oxygen loss, leading to cognitive decline, memory loss, and sometimes behavioral changes including aggression. The lack of visible symptoms and the behavioral shifts often cause dementia to be mistakenly labeled as a mental illness, fueling negative stereotypes. He shared an example from the institute’s counseling center where a woman reported her mother’s unusual aggressive outbursts, highlighting the disease’s impact on family dynamics.

The Po'eh Institute’s Sanctity of Life center has received hundreds of calls from caregivers on the brink of physical and mental collapse after taking on exclusive caregiving roles. Experts emphasize that maintaining the primary caregiver’s health is essential for proper patient care. Arnon advocates for openness with close circles, professional support from social workers and rehabilitation doctors, and community assistance. He stressed that changing public attitudes and removing shame are crucial steps to improve the quality of life for dementia patients and their families.