Star Trek actor Sir Patrick Stewart has died at his home in Los Angeles aged 86 following a “brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia”, his family has announced.
The actor rose to fame when he originated the role of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1987. He was also known for his role as Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men series, which began in 2000.
Family Statement Confirms Death
His family confirmed the death in a statement on social media. The statement read: “We announce with great sorrow the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart yesterday at his home in Los Angeles, in the loving care of his beloved wife Sunny, following a brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.
“He has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayers, tears, laughter and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to all of us.
“We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace.”
What Is Lewy Body Dementia?
According to the NHS website, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), also known as Lewy body dementia, is one of the most common types of dementia. Dementia is the name for problems with mental abilities caused by gradual changes and damage in the brain. It is rare in people under 65.
People with dementia with Lewy bodies may have hallucinations and hearing voices, problems with understanding, thinking, memory and judgement, confusion or sleepiness, slow movement, stiff limbs and tremors, disturbed sleep, fainting spells, unsteadiness and falls, and depression and anxiety.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
There are no specific tests for Lewy body dementia, but assessments can be carried out on mental abilities and symptoms. Blood tests and brain scans can also be carried out.
There is currently no cure for dementia with Lewy bodies or any treatment that will slow it down. However, there are treatments that can help control some of the symptoms, possibly for several years. Treatments include medicines to reduce hallucinations, confusion, drowsiness, movement problems and disturbed sleep, therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy, psychological therapies such as cognitive stimulation, and activities for dementia such as memory cafes.
