Posted on November 12th, 2025.

Why does a disease afflicting 7 million Americans (more than the entire population of Tennessee) have vague, common language - Mild, Moderate, Severe - as the clinical terms to describe its stages? I can have a mild cold or we could have a severe winter - are not the same as Mild and Severe Alzheimer's.. Moreover, such language only focuses upon the person's decline.

How much gentler -and empowering - would it be if we compared "The Long Goodbye" more like a journey they are on... I believe that aligns with Best Practices for Person-Centered Care.

How do we explain Alzheimer’s to someone who has never experienced it up close? Medical definitions can feel cold, and focusing solely on symptoms can create fear. That’s where metaphors come in—they help bridge the gap between the unknown and the familiar, giving us a way to connect, understand, and support those on this journey.

Why Metaphors Matter in Dementia Care

Metaphors provide clarity in a complex, often overwhelming situation. They allow caregivers, families, and communities to shift their perspective—moving from doom & gloom and to compassion and understanding.

✔ Alzheimer’s as a Journey – Rather than a linear path, Alzheimer’s is an ever-changing journey. People navigate different terrain at different speeds, and our role is to walk alongside them, adjusting as needed. 

 ✔ The Sojourner Framework – In Step Into Their World, we use the terms Pathfinder, Voyager, and Stargazer to reflect the different stages of Alzheimer’s, helping non-caregivers understand how to connect in meaningful ways.

The Sojourner Framework: Seeing Their Journey Differently

This metaphorical approach transforms the way we see Alzheimer’s, encouraging empathy over frustration:

🟣 Pathfinder (Mild Stage) – They are still navigating familiar ground but may need gentle guidance. 

🟣 Voyager (Moderate Stage) – They are moving into unknown territory, needing reassurance, support, and patience. 

🟣 Stargazer (Severe Stage) – They exist in a world beyond our logic, but connection is still possible through music, touch, and presence.

By embracing these metaphors, we can respond with patience, creativity, and love, rather than correction or frustration.

Using Language to Foster Connection, Not Fear

Instead of saying, “She’s lost to us,” we can say, “She’s experiencing the world differently now.” Small shifts in how we describe Alzheimer’s can change how we interact, support, and advocate.

Join the Conversation

💬 Have you used metaphors to explain Alzheimer’s to others? What has helped you understand this journey better? Let’s start a discussion!

📖 Want to learn more? My book Step Into Their World: Making Sense of Alzheimer’s provides practical insights and real-life strategies for fostering meaningful connections at every stage.

🔗 Get your copy today: Step Into Their World: Making Sense of Alzheimer's

📢 Shoutout to amazing advocates reshaping the Alzheimer’s conversation: @AlzheimersAssociation @DementiaFriendlyAmerica @TeepaSnow @AlzAuthors @TheAlzheimersExperience

#AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaCare #CompassionateCare #TheAlzheimersExperience #EndAlz