Abstract:

Objective: We investigated the lay public's attitudes toward help seeking and preferences for treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Method: Cross-sectional population-based random sample of 500 household residents over 18 years old participated in face-to-face interviews in Sao Paulo, which included a case vignette depicting AD and a structured questionnaire. Results: Public opinion rests firmly in the lay support system. Psychologists and self-help groups and close relatives were often rated as helpful. Many alternative treatments (such as vitamins, physical exercise, vacation) were often rated as helpful. Limited education, younger age and experience with psychiatric problems are associated with the 'medical' intervention model. Female sex and middle age are associated with 'alternative' interventions. Conclusion: Our results suggest that attitudes and belief systems have an important impact on help-seeking and treatment recommendations.

Keywords: dementia; Alzheimer's disease; public beliefs; community study; help-seeking behavior; treatment; medical literacy

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/13607860802343050

Affiliations: 1: Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil