Two Swiss documentaries examine realities of living with Alzheimer’s
Two new Swiss documentary films examine the realities of living with Alzheimer’s disease by following individuals who are losing their memories while insisting on their personal dignity, nzz.ch reported.
Key Clinical Takeaways:
- People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease strongly reject being treated like children or pitied for memory lapses.
- Documentary subjects demonstrate that maintaining independence, engaging with nature, and utilizing humor remain vital parts of living with the condition.
The Reality of Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
Birgitta Martensson, a former director of Alzheimer Schweiz who spent fifteen years leading the association, received her Alzheimer’s diagnosis shortly before retirement. nzz.ch reported that Martensson is the subject of the documentary film Wenn die Erinnerung verblasst, directed by Marianne Pletscher and Martina Rieder. The filmmakers followed Martensson over three years until she reached the age of 76.
Martensson speaks openly about forgetting words or misplacing household items. At a conference for individuals with early-stage dementia, she emphasized that patients do not want pity and reject being infantilized. Despite her diagnosis following a slow-progressing path over nine years, she maintains that individuals can still experience a meaningful life after diagnosis. Her daily routine includes walking in the forest, caring for balcony plants, and using humor to cope with the condition.
The Progression of Cognitive Decline and Personal Independence
As time advances, the documentary captures the stark changes in Martensson’s daily capabilities. nzz.ch reported that six months later, she struggles to use ticket vending machines, has difficulty finding her doctor’s clinic, and loses the ability to manage tasks on her computer. Multilingual skills that once served as cognitive training begin to fade as she struggles to retrieve words.
Martensson stated an early preference to avoid moving into a nursing home, favoring self-determination that extends to considering assisted dying options through Exit while she retains decision-making capacity.
Improvisational Theater as a Medium for Expression
A second Swiss documentary, Das unendliche Jetzt directed by Kaspar Kasics, takes a different approach by placing Alzheimer’s patients in a staged, improvisational theater setting. nzz.ch reported that the film brings together six individuals on a specially prepared stage to express their frustration, anger, fear, and moments of happiness through performance and roleplay.
The participants include Christiane Meier, a former fashion industry professional; Martin Bigler, a former professional backgammon and Jass player who notes he now always loses; and Christian Sonderegger, a former teacher who describes his dementia as a black hole that sucks in and empties everything. They are joined by actors Juri Elmer and Klara Rensing, along with Tatjana Bollhalder, a former employee of the St. Gallen city administration diagnosed with early-onset dementia in 2024 who refers to her condition as “Demi,” a companion spirit observing her daily life.
While the theatrical setup creates initial confusion for audiences regarding what is real versus staged, the participants describe the process as a liberating way to distance themselves from the disease and avoid being viewed solely as damaged or pitiful.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.