Reflections on World Alzheimer's Day and the film Still Alice

On September 21, the world observed World Alzheimer’s Day, an annual global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the neurodegenerative condition. To mark the occasion, attention was drawn to the acclaimed film 'Still Alice', which is based on the novel by Lisa Genova and directed to highlight the human experience of early-onset Alzheimer’s.

The film depicts the life of Alice Howland, a 50-year-old Harvard psychology professor portrayed by Julianne Moore, who received an Oscar for the role in 2015. The narrative follows Alice’s progressive cognitive decline, including disorientation in familiar surroundings and the eventual inability to recognize her own children. Beyond individual suffering, the story examines the profound impact on her husband and three children, highlighting the necessity of long-term care and emotional support.

The core message of both the book and the film emphasizes that patients retain their inherent identity, worth, and uniqueness despite the progression of the disease. The observance of this day serves to reinforce the importance of solidarity, love, and professional care for those affected by the condition.