When you’re supporting a loved one, it can be hard to put certain emotions or changes into words. Fortunately, movies can help you understand Alzheimer’s disease in a way that feels personal and relatable. These films show what families often experience—the uncertainty, the adjustments, and the moments of connection that still matter.
5 movies that show the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease include:
- The Father (2020)
- Still Alice (2014)
- Away from Her (2006)
- The Notebook (2004)
- The Savages (2007)
Key Takeaways
- Films can provide a window into the personal experience of memory loss.
- Five well-known films—The Father, Still Alice, Away from Her, The Notebook, and The Savages—offer different perspectives on memory loss.
- These stories can help families start important conversations about future care needs.
- The movies often show the emotional journey of both the person with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.
- Understanding what Alzheimer’s is and learning the early signs can help families prepare for future care needs.
- Families often explore memory care when safety, routine, or daily support becomes challenging at home.
How Cinema Can Help You Understand Alzheimer’s
Movies can offer a grounded, human view of what Alzheimer’s can look like day to day. They give families a way to talk openly about changes they may already be noticing or anticipating. For many people, these stories help reduce uncertainty and make the next steps feel less overwhelming. They provide a way to start important conversations about the future and the type of support that may be needed.
5 Films About Alzheimer’s Disease
These films approach Alzheimer’s in different ways and offer perspectives that may resonate with what your family is going through. Each story centers on relationships, the shifting nature of memory, and the experience of navigating change together.
The Father (2020)
The Father follows an older man who begins experiencing disruptions in his sense of time, place, and routine. The story unfolds from his viewpoint, showing how disorientation and confusion can affect everyday life. Meanwhile, you see how his daughter tries to support him while balancing her own responsibilities.
The movie highlights the emotional challenges families face as symptoms become more noticeable. It offers a realistic look at how Alzheimer’s may alter familiar dynamics without revealing key turning points.
Still Alice (2014)
This movie centers on a respected linguistics professor who starts noticing changes in her memory and work life. As she seeks answers, her family becomes part of her journey, each member responding in their own way.
Throughout Still Alice, you can explore how an early-onset diagnosis affects identity, careers, and family routines. It gradually shows how she adapts while navigating moments of uncertainty and shifting independence. The film focuses on relationships, communication, and the emotional work behind everyday adjustments.
Away from Her (2006)
Away From Her follows a long-married couple as the wife begins showing signs of Alzheimer’s and later moves into a care community. Their relationship becomes the heart of the film as they both learn to cope with changes neither expected.
This movie focuses on the spouse’s experience, including the difficult balance between supporting a loved one and managing his own emotional needs. It reflects the realities of progressing symptoms and evolving bonds. The tone remains quiet and thoughtful throughout, offering space for families to reflect on similar transitions.
The Notebook (2004)
At its core, The Notebook tells a multigenerational love story framed around memory, storytelling, and companionship. An older man reads a handwritten journal aloud to a woman living with memory loss, helping her reconnect with parts of her past.
As the story weaves between timelines, families see how meaningful familiar voices and shared histories can be. The movie shows how routines and emotional connections can remain comforting even when recall changes. It offers a gentle, hopeful depiction of staying present with a loved one through difficult moments.
The Savages (2007)
This film follows two adult siblings who must come together when their father begins showing signs of dementia. The Savages doesn’t shy away from the practical realities families face, including decision-making, care options, and shifting responsibilities. Instead, it captures how siblings may react differently when a parent’s needs change.
The film blends personal reflection with honest moments that feel familiar to many caregivers. Through its characters, it highlights the challenges—and small successes—that come with supporting a loved one.
How You Can Learn More About Alzheimer’s Disease
Films can be a wonderful way to learn about Alzheimer’s disease. However, this is an extremely complicated condition. Helping someone with Alzheimer’s disease becomes much easier when you know what’s actually occurring.
What Alzheimer’s Disease Is
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and certain daily abilities. It develops as certain proteins build up in the brain and physically damage surrounding cells. This condition worsens over time and eventually compromises a person’s memory, thinking, behavior, and more.
The Most Common Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
In the earliest stages, Alzheimer’s is subtle. However, it eventually causes a person to have difficulty recalling recent events, trouble following conversations, or changes in problem-solving. These symptoms can vary from person to person, and noticing them early can help guide supportive next steps.
When to Seek Additional Support
Many families start exploring memory care when safety, consistency, or daily routines require more hands-on help. If your loved one’s memory problems affect their daily safety or quality of life, they’d likely benefit from a move to memory care. Reaching out early allows families to learn about options without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
How Our Community Supports Residents with Alzheimer’s Disease
At The Grande at South Portland, we understand that Alzheimer’s affects each family differently. Our memory care approach is designed to offer structure, comfort, and opportunities for residents to feel engaged throughout their day. Here, we focus on consistent routines, thoughtful spaces, and supportive interactions that help residents experience familiarity and connection.
Our team is here to guide families who are weighing the next steps and want to learn more about what memory care can offer. We encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and explore whether our community is the right fit. To learn more about our approach, schedule a tour today.
