Culture, Economics, and Alzheimer's Disease: Social Determinants of Resource Allocation

Abstract

Although the United States and the Czech Republic have approximately the same proportion of people older than ages 65 and 80, there are striking differences in the response to Alzheimer's disease. In the United States, there is considerable public interest, openness about the problem, and a vigorous research effort to cope with the disease. In the Czech Republic, by contrast, there is little government, media, or public interest. The disease is treated as a natural result of aging and thought to be a matter offate and acceptance rather than calling for a medical response. The cultural and historical reasons for this difference are explored, noting that a change in Czech attitudes and practices, important and necessary, will nonetheless come at a price. Both coun tries will in the future face new and daunting problems in caring for those with the disease.