The Truth Behind Common Myths about Alzheimers Disease

Alzheimers disease and dementia affect 747,000 Canadians, including about 15% of those 65 and older. Despite the prevalence of both diseases, misconceptions about Alzheimers disease and dementia are unfortunately quite common. Understanding the facts about Alzheimers disease will help family caregivers identify signs and symptoms of Alzheimers disease in their elderly loved ones. Knowing the facts may also ease some fears which you have about this form of progressive mental deterioration disorder.

Myth: Memory Loss is Normal

One of the first myths is that everyones memory goes as they age. The truth is that some people remain mentally sharp with regards to memory and other facets of mental cognition until the day they pass away. Others experience memory problems and other difficulties which may be related to Alzheimers or other types of disorders.

Everyone is different, so changes in memory may be a signal of Alzheimers disease rather than normal symptoms of aging. This is why its important to see a doctor if these types of issues crop up.

Myth: Alzheimers Disease Only Affects Seniors

Another misconception is that Alzheimers only afflicts those in their golden years. The truth is that this disease may strike in middle age. So, problems with memory which surface earlier than one would expect may be a sign that this disorder is present. Of course, there may be another reason why someones memory is changing for the worse.

Only a licensed doctor will have the skills to diagnose what is happening, whether its Alzheimers or something else. If things are changing with your own memory or with the memory of someone that you care about, visit your doctor. Give a physician the opportunity to figure out whats really going on with the changes in memory.

Myth: Alzheimers Disease is Preventable

It is true that living a healthier lifestyle is linked with a lower risk of developing Alzheimers disease, but there is no evidence of causation. People are well advised to eat well, exercise, stay social, and keep the mind active and engaged to improve quality of life, but there is no causal-effect evidence that these activities prevent Alzheimers disease.

Help is Out There

If youre trying to support someone who may have Alzheimers, you should know that a lot of helpful resources are out there. Its hard to care for someone with Alzheimers on your own and you need support and respite. This is a progressive disease. Its degenerative and this means caring for people with Alzheimers gets tougher over time.

In-home care services that are knowledgeable are the best way to take pressure off of your shoulders. When you access in-home care, nurses and other health care professionals and caregivers will come to your home and offer care according to the patients needs. Some people need help with preparing meals, light housework, or medication reminders. Others require a higher level of care such as behavioral monitoring, medication reviews, or even 24/7 nurse-monitored care.

If you have further questions about Alzheimers disease or would like to learn more about in-home Alzheimers care, get in touch with our psychogeriatric resources at Qualicare Family Homecare at 613.366.2899.