5 myths about Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is poorly understood. To prevent stigmatizing those afflicted, here are five long-standing myths about it that need to be dispelled.

1. Alzheimer’s disease only affects memory
While memory loss is the symptom that’s most often associated with Alzheimer’s disease, the condition can cause a host of other cognitive issues. For instance, it may manifest as a loss of interest in one’s favorite pastimes, a loss of coordination such as difficulties with eating or getting dressed, word repetition, getting lost in familiar surroundings and becoming easily agitated.

2. Only seniors are affected
We tend to think of Alzheimer’s disease as only affecting the elderly. However, while people over 65 years of age are more likely to be diagnosed, early-onset Alzheimer’s can afflict people in their forties or fifties.

3. Life stops at diagnosis
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t mean the individual’s life is over. With treatment and close monitoring, it’s possible to pursue projects and live a fulfilling life for many years after the disease is detected.

4. People with Alzheimer’s disease are violent
Alzheimer’s disease manifests in varying ways among different people. Some individuals diagnosed with it may express their frustration in aggressive ways, but this doesn’t occur universally. Ensuring those with Alzheimer’s have a calm and stable environment will reduce the likelihood of violent behavior.

5. It’s possible to prevent Alzheimer’s disease
There’s no way to entirely prevent Alzheimer’s. However, it’s possible to significantly reduce your risk of developing it by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Stay active, eat well, and above all, avoid smoking. Tobacco smoking increases your risk of developing cognitive disease by up to 45 percent. Maintaining a healthy social life is also important.

Close to 5 millions American are living with Alzheimer’s disease. To learn more, visit alzheimers.net/resources.