There is no documented evidence on current or changing perceptions of dementia in Jamaica. However, there is some indication that targeted stigma reduction campaigns of the 1970s and 1980s have shown positive effects, with at least one study revealing that older persons (over 40 years) showed more positive emotions and tolerance to those living with a mental illness (Arthur, et al., 2010). Such evidence provides hope that the current efforts of bring awareness to dementia and reducing stigma will bring favourable results in the years to come.

References:

Arthur C.M., Hickling F.W. Robertson-Hickling H, Haynes-Robinson T, Abel W, Whitley R. (2010). Mad, Sick, Head Nuh Good: Mental Illness Stigma in Jamaican Communities. Transcultural Psychiatry, 47(2):252-275. https://doi.org/10.1177/1363461510368912