6 myths about Alzheimer’s
It’s one of the most tragic and, sadly, widespread diseases among the elderly, and given how many sufferers are out there (over 40,000 in New Zealand), there’s lots of conflicting information about Alzheimer’s disease, so it’s often quite difficult to tell fact from fiction. Let’s break down some of the most common myths about this mysterious disease.
Myth 1: I remember lots of things, therefore I can’t have Alzheimer’s disease
Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s is one of those diseases that can creep up on you without you even realising. The disease impacts more recent memories first, so you may find yourself still able to recall memories from your youth while unable to remember what you ate for breakfast. In fact, it’s not until around the midpoint of the disease that your long-term memories begin to fade.
Myth 2: Everyone can get Alzheimer’s if they live long enough
It’s important to realise that Alzheimer’s disease is not just another part of ageing. While many people will find their memory isn’t as strong when they enter their 60s and beyond, Alzheimer’s disease is something else entirely. It affects all parts of the brain, including memory, judgement and personality.
Myth 3: Only elderly people can get Alzheimer’s
Thought you were safe? Think again. Although it’s most common in people over the age of 65, Alzheimer’s can strike as young as 30 (this is known as early-onset Alzheimer’s). So even if you’re in your early 60s, you still may be at risk.
Myth 4: I’ll probably get Alzheimer’s because it runs in my family
While having a family member with Alzheimer’s does slightly increase your chances of getting the disease, it’s not an inevitability. If you are worried about your chances, however, you can be tested for the APOE-e4 gene, which is believed to be a risk indicator.
Myth 5: Alzheimer’s will make me a more aggressive person
Alzheimer’s disease affects everyone differently. Frustration certainly comes with the territory of memory loss, but aggression is not a very common side effect of the disease. On the contrary, some people can become quieter and more reserved.
Myth 6: An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is a death sentence
Sadly, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are the fourth-leading cause of death in New Zealand. However, this doesn’t mean that an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is a death sentence. Many sufferers can live comfortably during the first years of the disease and beyond, and while there is no cure, studies have shown certain lifestyle choices may help slow its progression.
Do you have any health myths you’d like busted? Let us know in the comment section below.
Related links:
Video shows man’s undying devotion to wife with Alzheimer’s
Beautiful poem captures the pain of Alzheimer’s
This mobile game is helping fight dementia