Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-2016
Abstract
Currently more than 46 million people are living with dementia globally (ADI, 2015). The World Health Organization (WHO) reports the worldwide population of persons 60 years of age and older will more than triple between 2000 and 2050 to two billion. The concept of Western patients receiving long-term dementia care in foreign countries is a new and emerging phenomenon (Gray, 2013; Pomareda, 2014; Wegerer, 2014). This study examines the visual images within Alzheimer’s care facility websites (n=105) and uses a cross cultural comparison lens to contrast differences in patient representations and treatment facilities. The goal of this study is to analyze the differences in representations of Alzheimer’s patients, their caregivers, and the visual representations of their skills, abilities, and environmental surroundings. Results from this study found that international regions vary the visual representations of Alzheimer’s patients, providers, caregivers, treatment options, and types of social interactions (e.g., family, other patients). More multiculturalism and ethnic diversity was documented in memory care centers in the Southeast Asia and Western Pacific WHO regions. Discussion, limitations, and future directions are provided.
Recommended Citation
Spencer, L. & Mason, A.M. (2016). Images of Alzheimer’s: A visual analysis of the imagery used to globally market Alzheimer’s services online. International Journal of Communication and Health, 9, 1-11.
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