The aim of this study was to examine lay persons' beliefs about the helpfulness of interventions for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its correlates. Interviews were conducted with 206 Jewish Israeli adults (mean age 59.7), using an experimental vignette methodology varying in the severity of the disease. Information regarding participants' recommendations about the helpfulness of 10 interventions for the person described in the vignette was elicited. Sociodemographic and psychological correlates were examined.
We discovered that the lay public endorses the use of nonpharmacological treatments more than pharmacological ones. Engagement in social activities and participation in a support group were the treatment approaches most recommended, while the use of physical restraints and isolation were the least recommended. Beliefs about AD treatments were associated with helpseeking from professional sources.
Advances in the development of effective treatments for AD should be accompanied by research into the public's understanding of these treatments.
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