Actor Sir Patrick Stewart dies at 86 after battling two forms of dementia
The death of the 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men' star has prompted a renewed look at the specific symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
By William Turner ·
Sir Patrick Stewart, the celebrated actor known for his roles in 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men', has died at the age of 86. The announcement came on Thursday, confirming his passing at his home in Los Angeles. He was surrounded by his wife, Sunny, and family members during his final hours. The cause of death was attributed to a combination of Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
A statement released on his social media page described his final period as a "brief and poignant journey" with the two conditions. The family noted that he died in the loving care of his wife and was surrounded by live music, prayers, and friends. They highlighted the "peaceful ease" on his face, describing it as an enduring reminder of his grace.
The Alzheimer's Society and the NHS have used the news to clarify the medical realities facing many families. Dementia is not a single disease but a collection of symptoms resulting from brain damage. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause, accounting for approximately two-thirds of dementia cases in the United Kingdom. Lewy body dementia, or DLB, affects about one in ten people with the condition, though experts believe it is frequently under-diagnosed.
According to the NHS, early symptoms of dementia are often mild and may be mistaken for normal aging. Common indicators include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and trouble carrying out familiar daily tasks. Individuals may struggle to follow conversations or find the right words. Confusion regarding time and place, along with mood changes, are also noted as early warning signs. The NHS advises that these symptoms should be reported to a general practitioner promptly rather than being dismissed as part of the aging process.
Specific symptoms vary by type. Alzheimer's disease typically presents with regular forgetting of recent events, names, and faces. Patients may ask repetitive questions and struggle with organization, planning, and handling money. Confusion in unfamiliar environments and increased withdrawal or anxiety are also common. In contrast, DLB shares many of these traits but includes distinct physical and perceptual changes.
Those with Lewy body dementia often experience fluctuating levels of alertness and confusion. Visual hallucinations, where a person sees things that are not present, are a hallmark symptom. Physical movement slows down, leading to repeated falls and fainting episodes. Sleep disturbances are also frequent. Michelle Dyson, chief executive officer of the Alzheimer's Society, stated that both conditions are progressive and gradually change how a person interacts with the world.
Dyson expressed deep sadness over Stewart's death, noting that he was admired by millions globally. She emphasized that the organization remains available for advice and support for those affected. The NHS stresses that dementia is not a natural part of aging, encouraging individuals to seek medical attention for memory problems or other cognitive changes as soon as they arise.
