A Korean lawmaker has proposed a bill to change the name of dementia to “neurocognitive disorder” and enhance care support for individuals affected by the condition.

Rep. Kim Yun-duk of the Democratic Party of Korea, a member of the National Assembly's Culture, Sports, and Tourism Committee, introduced the “Dementia Management Act Amendment Bill” on Friday.

The amendment focuses on replacing the term “dementia” with “neurocognitive disorder” in the current law. Consequently, the name of the existing law would be revised to the “Act on the Management of Neurocognitive Disorders.”

Additionally, the scope of “dementia management” in the current law would be redefined to include the establishment of a community-based integrated care support system, as well as the expansion of specialized care organizations and related personnel.

Kim noted that the term “dementia” has contributed to social stigma surrounding the disease and has acted as a barrier to early diagnosis and treatment.

“By reflecting community-based integrated care for patients with neurocognitive disorders, we hope to promote accurate awareness of the condition and enhance support more effectively,” he said.