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Way back in 1983, President Ronald Reagan designated November as Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. Our understanding of the condition has increased dramatically since then. However, several myths about Alzheimer’s disease persist. Let’s put them to rest today!
1. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are the same thing.
Dementia is not a specific illness. Rather, this umbrella term covers a wide variety of conditions that affect memory, reasoning, and personality to the point where they interfere with daily activities.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-70% of all cases. For a summary of several forms of dementia, check out this article from the Alzheimer’s Society.
2. If one of my parents has Alzheimer’s disease, I’ll get it, too.
While researchers have linked some genes to Alzheimer’s disease, a family history doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop the condition. It’s also possible for people with no family history to develop Alzheimer’s disease. You’ll find lots of fascinating information about the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease in this article from the National Institutes On Aging.
3. Alzheimer’s disease only affects old people.
Most people who develop Alzheimer’s disease are over the age of 65. However, there is also an early-onset Alzheimer’s disease affecting people as young as their 30s and 40s.
This type is much less common and usually has a genetic component. For more information about early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, you’ll want to read this article from John Hopkins Medicine.
4. I can take herbs and supplements to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers have discovered no herb or supplement that prevents Alzheimer’s disease— despite the ads you might see. Since we don’t know for sure what causes Alzheimer’s disease, we don’t yet know how to prevent it.
That being said, research suggests that lifestyle changes may decrease the risk or slow the onset of the illness. The Alzheimer’s Foundation offers ten tips to promote a healthy brain as we age.
5. If my mind isn’t as sharp as it used to be, I must have Alzheimer’s disease.
As we age, most of us notice it takes longer to remember things, and we may have more difficulty multitasking. These changes are usually normal. Alzheimer’s disease involves more profound changes that interfere with our daily functioning.
The Alzheimer’s Association provides a helpful guide to differentiate between expected memory declines and the warning signs of dementia. If you’re concerned about your memory, it’s essential to contact your medical provider for guidance.
6. Alzheimer’s disease is an inevitable part of growing old.
Although the chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease rises as we age, it is not a normal part of aging. According to Alzheimers.net, the following percentage of people in the US have Alzheimer’s disease according to age:
- 65-74: 15%
- 75-84: 44%
- 85+: 38%
So, even though Alzheimer’s disease affects many people, it’s still possible to live well into old age without developing the condition.
7. There’s nothing we can do to help people with Alzheimer’s disease.
While we don’t yet have a cure, we can do a lot to improve the quality of life for people living with the illness. This article from Very Well Health offers an excellent summary.
Over the years, five medications have received FDA approval to treat Alzheimer’s disease. They may temporarily improve cognitive function in some patients. You can learn more about these medications on the Alzheimer’s Association website.
8. We can’t die of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease currently ranks as the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. Declines in brain function result in complications that make Alzheimer’s disease a terminal illness.
The most common complication is pneumonia because of an impaired ability to swallow. Other fatal complications include heart or kidney failure, blood clots, and other types of infections.
Are there other myths about Alzheimer’s disease that we need to dispel? Please share in the comment section.
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Angie says
Another myth is that people with Alzheimer’s disease can remember things if they try hard enough. I see visitors approach our residents and say something like, “Do you remember me? Who am I?” This only leaves the resident feeling embarrassed and confused.
Diane says
Hello Angie,
You make an excellent point. Alzheimer’s disease involves the death of brain cells, and the individual has no control over what they can or can’t remember.