Alzheimer’s disease
What to know
Alzheimer’s disease, known also only as “Alzheimer’s,” is a progressive neurologic disorder that causes, but is not interchangeable with, dementia. It ultimately hinders an individual’s ability to function independently. Alzheimer’s currently has no cure, though some medication reduces the impact of symptoms. Incidents like memory loss should not automatically be assumed to be representative of the disease, and avoiding patronizing or infantilizing language in coverage is important, especially if individuals with Alzheimer’s are the subjects of a story.
Additional resources
- What is Alzheimer’s Disease? (Alzheimer’s Association)
- Alzheimer’s disease – Symptoms and causes (Mayo Clinic)
- What not to say to somebody with dementia (Alzheimer’s Society)
Summary
A progressive neurologic disorder that causes dementia and ultimately hinders an individual’s ability to function independently. Incidents like memory loss should not automatically be assumed to be representative of the disease, and avoiding patronizing or infantilizing language in coverage is important.