Myths and Realities about Alzheimer's Disease
Over the years, many myths have arisen about what Alzheimer's disease is, who gets it and how it affects people who have it. These myths can add to the stigma or shame attached to the disease. They can also stand in the way of our ability to understand and help people with it. At the Alzheimer Society, we believe the sooner we get rid of the myths, the better we'll be able to respond to the needs of the people with dementia and their families. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative brain disease. It is most often diagnosed in people over 65, but can affect adults at an earlier age.
Myth 1: Because someone in my family has Alzheimer's disease, I'm going to get it.
Reality: Although genetics (family history) plays a role in the disease, only in five to seven per cent of the cases is the cause connected to genes. In these cases, the disease is the early onset Familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD). Genes may also play a role in the more common, late onset, "sporadic Alzheimer's disease" form. A person who has a parent or sibling with sporadic Alzheimer's disease has a slightly higher risk of getting the disease.
Myth 2: Alzheimer's disease is an old person's disease.
Reality: Age is the strongest known risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. But this does not mean that most people develop the disease as they age. Most do not. As well, some younger people, in their 40s or 50s, have been diagnosed with the late onset form of the disease. What’s most important to understand is that Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging.
Myth 3: There is a cure for Alzheimer's disease.
Reality: There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet. But, for some people, medications and treatments can help manage some of the symptoms and improve quality of life. The good news is that researchers have made great progress and a number of drugs now in clinical trials act directly against the disease process.
Myth 4: Memory loss means Alzheimer's disease.
Reality: Many people have trouble with their memory. This by itself does not mean they have Alzheimer's disease. When memory loss affects day-to-day function and is combined with lack of judgment and reasoning, or changes in the ability to communicate, it's best to see a doctor to find out the cause of the symptoms.
Myth 5: You can prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Reality: No treatment can prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers are learning, however, that lifestyle choices that keep mind and body fit may help lower the risk of developing the disease. These choices include being physically active; eating healthy foods including fresh fruits, vegetables and fish; keeping your brain challenged; reducing stress, keeping an eye on your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels; avoiding traumatic brain injury; and keeping socially active.
Some people believe that avoiding aluminum in cooking utensils (pots and pans) reduces your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Although there's been a lot research into the connection between aluminum and Alzheimer's disease, there's no definite evidence to show a link. The disease appears to develop when the different risk factors combine. This includes older age, genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors. These factors overwhelm the natural capacity of the brain to deal with them.
Read more about myths on the Alzheimer Canada website