Abstract
A careful study of language changes in Alzheimer’s can be useful in at least three areas: (1) in identification and differential diagnosis, (2) in formulating intervention strategies and (3) in the study of neurolinguistics and the relationship between language and thought. Specifically, Dementia of the Alzheimer’s type (DAT), as in all other progressive as well as reversible dementias, is characterized by a linguistic disorder as well as a profound communication disorder (Overman & Geoffrey, 1987; Bayles, 1985; Hier, Hagenlocker & Shindler, 1985). The linguistic and cognitive bases of language in comparison with the communication aspect of language are important concepts in understanding the disruptive effects of this disease and warrant explication. Thus, this chapter will attempt to lead the reader to a greater understanding of the central role which language plays in understanding and treating this disorder, and, how the study of this disorder may offer insight into the interdependence of language and thought.
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Domenico, R.A. (1990). Verbal Communication Impairment in Dementia Research Frontiers in Language and Cognition. In: Zandi, T., Ham, R.J. (eds) New Directions in Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 282. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-0665-8_7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-0665-8_7
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