At all times, we need to speak for individuals with Alzheimer's disease who can no longer speak for themselves. But there are points when our responsibility becomes even more imperative. The controversy that flared up last week-and continues to burn-after religious broadcaster Pat Robertson likened Alzheimer's disease to "a walking death" on his "700 Club" show on the Christian Broadcasting Network marks one of those times.

Every time I think our nation has moved one step forward on Alzheimer's...