Patrick Stewart dies at 86 after Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia

Actor Patrick Stewart died at 86, according to reports. His official Instagram account announced his death. Time reported that the accompanying statement described a “brief and poignant journey” with Alzheimer’s and dementia. NBC News reported the statement as naming Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia, and said Stewart had not publicly disclosed the diagnoses before his death.

NBC News said both conditions are progressive and can cause problems with memory, thinking and attention. It reported that they can occur together and that Lewy body dementia may be misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s. The report said there is currently no cure for Lewy body dementia, though some medications can help manage symptoms.