10 Myths and Facts About Alzheimer's Disease

September 21 is World Alzheimer's Day. This year's theme is: "Dementia. It's Time for Action!" The emphasis is on promoting awareness of Alzheimer's disease and improving services for those with dementia and their families.

For many Canadians, the fear of developing Alzheimer's disease is high on the list of concerns about growing older. But when it comes to memory loss, what you don't know can hurt you. Test your knowledge of Alzheimer's disease with the following quiz.

1. MYTH or FACT?  Memory loss is just a natural part of growing older.
   
   
2. MYTH or FACT? Alzheimer's disease is most common in the elderly.
   
   
3. MYTH or FACT?  Alzheimer's disease cannot be prevented.
   
   
4. MYTH or FACT?  Alzheimer's disease is the only condition that causes dementia.
   
   
5. MYTH or FACT?  An x-ray of the brain can diagnose Alzheimer's disease.
   
   
6. MYTH or FACT? Loss of interest in physical appearance and household tasks may be a symptom of early Alzheimer's disease. 
   
   
7. MYTH or FACT?  No medications can cure Alzheimer's disease or help the symptoms.
   
   
8. MYTH or FACT?  If you suspect a loved one has Alzheimer's disease, you shouldn't bring it up—just wait and watch. 
   
   
9. MYTH or FACT? Alzheimer's disease can be caused by the aluminum in cooking pans, deodorant, etc. 
   
   
10. MYTH or FACT?  Resources are available for family members of people who have Alzheimer's disease.

Answers to "10 Myths and Facts About Alzheimer's Disease"

1.  Memory loss is just a natural part of growing older.

MYTH. While normal, predictable memory changes occur as we age, most people maintain their memory health through the years. The stereotype that most older adults inevitably become "senile" is incorrect. Significant memory loss may be a sign of Alzheimer's disease.

2. Alzheimer's disease is most common in the elderly. 

FACT. The older we get, the more likely we are to develop the disease. By age 85, almost half of us will have some degree of memory loss. But it is not only an "old person's disease." Early onset Alzheimer's may appear even in early middle age.

3.  Alzheimer's disease cannot be prevented. 

FACT. Researchers still do not know the exact causes of Alzheimer's disease. There may be a genetic connection, and evidence is mounting about other risk factors. Studies do suggest, however, that cognitive impairment can be delayed by certain lifestyle choices, such as diet, physical exercise, and choosing activities that provide mental stimulation. It's also important to control other conditions that may be connected to dementia, such as diabetes and kidney disease.

4. Alzheimer's disease is the only condition that causes dementia.

MYTH. Alzheimer's is the most common cause, but other conditions such as stroke or Parkinson's disease can also lead to dementia. It's important to know that some conditions that mimic Alzheimer's—such as thyroid problems, medication interactions and depression—can be treated.

5.  An x-ray of the brain can diagnose Alzheimer's disease.

MYTH. Unfortunately, the brain changes that cause Alzheimer's can not be seen with a simple x-ray. However, promising new tests using MRI and other imaging techniques are in development. Physical examination is important to rule out other conditions; the disease is then most often diagnosed by a series of tests of mental status.

6. Loss of interest in physical appearance and household tasks may be a symptom of early Alzheimer's. 

FACT.  Many family members first notice that something is amiss when their loved one exhibits an uncharacteristic lack of concern for personal grooming, meal preparation, and the usual household tasks.

7.  No medications can cure Alzheimer's disease or help the symptoms.

FACT…AND MYTH. Researchers are working on promising new medications, but as of yet there is no cure for Alzheimer's. However, several types of drugs may delay or improve some behavioral symptoms of the disease, including agitation, sleeplessness, anxiety and depression.

8. If you suspect a loved one has Alzheimer's disease, you shouldn't bring it up—just wait and watch.

MYTH. Early diagnosis offers the best chance to treat the symptoms of the disease. In addition, this allows your loved one to participate as much as possible in planning for the future with healthcare providers and the family.

9.  Alzheimer's disease can be caused by the aluminum in cooking pans, deodorant, etc. 

MYTH. A number of studies have examined this theory, but according to the Alzheimer's Society and Health Canada, it appears that everyday sources of aluminum pose no threat to consumers.

10.  Resources are available for family members of people who have Alzheimer's disease. 

FACT. The increasing number of spouses and other loved ones who provide the day-to-day care of a person with dementia face an array of challenges—physical, mental, emotional and financial. It is vital to take advantage of support services in the community, including Alzheimer's home care and respite care, adult day centres, or care in a skilled nursing facility or other memory care community.

For More Information

The Alzheimer Society offers consumer information for people with Alzheimer's and their families.

To learn how home care supports those who are caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's disease, see "Helping Alzheimer's Patients Remain Home Longer" in the January 2010 issue of Choices.