ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Myth and Reality
Many myths surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and its effects have been perpetuated over the years. These myths can add to the stigma attached to the disease and stand in the way of our ability to understand and help the people who have it.
At the Alzheimer Society, we believe that the sooner we dispel these myths, the better we can help people with Alzheimer’s and their families.
Myth 1
I know that I will get the disease because someone in my family has it.
Although genetics are a risk factor for the disease, only a small percentage of Alzheimer’s cases is associated with genes that cause the disease.
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Myth 2
Alzheimer’s is an old person’s disease.
While age is the most significant known risk factor, not everyone develops the disease as they age. Adults in their forties and fifties can also get it. What’s most important to understand is that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.
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Myth 3
Alzheimer’s disease is curable.
At present, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are medications and other approaches that can alleviate some symptoms in many people. The good news is that researchers have made great strides and are confident that they will find a cure.
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Myth 4
Memory loss means that I have Alzheimer’s disease.
Many people have problems remembering, but that doesn’t mean that they have the disease. However, when memory loss affects day-to-day activities, and is coupled with lack of judgment and reasoning or changes in communication ability, it is important to visit a doctor to determine the cause of the symptoms.
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Myth 5
Aluminium causes Alzheimer’s disease.
Despite numerous studies conducted on the possible connection between aluminium and the disease, there is no conclusive evidence to show a link. Many risk factors, including age, genetics, lifestyle and environment may contribute to developing Alzheimer’s disease.
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Myth 6
Alzheimer’s disease is preventable.
At this time, there is no evidence that the disease is preventable. However, there are a growing number of indications that lifestyle choices promoting good physical and mental health may reduce the risk. These choices include mental activity, physical exercise and healthy eating habits.
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Myth 7
Vitamins, supplements and memory boosters can prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
The many studies conducted to test the effectiveness of products such as vitamin E, vitamin B and ginkgo biloba in preventing the disease are inconclusive. Further research is being done.
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Myth 8
If I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, my life would be over.
A good number of people with the disease lead active, meaningful lives. They have dreams and a sense of purpose. Early diagnosis and medications are helping. As the disease progresses, it is also important to provide appropriate surroundings, services, support and activities to enrich the quality of life of people with the disease.
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Myth 9
All people with Alzheimer’s become violent and aggressive.
The disease affects every person differently. For the person with Alzheimer’s, the loss of memory and ensuing confusion are often frustrating or even frightening. By learning about the disease, adapting the person’s surroundings and changing the way we communicate with the person, aggressive responses may be preventable.
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Myth 10
People with Alzheimer’s disease cannot understand what is going on around them.
Many people with the disease understand very well what is going on around them, while others have more difficulty. Alzheimer’s affects people’s ability to communicate and make sense of the world around them, but a person with Alzheimer’s is still the same person as before and needs to be treated with dignity and respect.
(Source: Alzheimer Society of Canada.)
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Preventive Measures |
