Biomedical and neurodegeneration research uses specialised terminology that can sometimes make scientific information difficult to understand. The EPND Lay Glossary provides clear, accessible explanations of terms commonly encountered in neurodegenerative disease research.

The glossary is intended for people who do not have specialist training or experience in research, including people living with or affected by neurodegenerative diseases and members of the general public. It covers terminology relating to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, Parkinson’s disease, research, ethics, data sharing and data protection, diversity and inclusion, and artificial intelligence and computing.

Developed through EPND’s Public Involvement work, the glossary was created with members of the EPND Patient Expert Group, alongside Alzheimer Europe, the Spanish Parkinson's Federation, and other EPND partners. Their input helped ensure that definitions and the way they are presented are understandable and useful to a lay audience.

The glossary will continue to be updated and refined as new terms emerge and feedback is received. To share feedback, please contact Dianne Gove at dianne.gove@alzheimer-europe.org.

Explore the Lay Glossary: https://epnd.org/lay-glossary-1