If you are a caregiver to an older adult, one of the things that you may be concerned about is whether or not they will develop dementia. That’s not an unfounded fear since there are about 5.8 million people in the United States with the disease. The number is frightening. Unfortunately, fear sometimes causes people to seek out information, even believing some that may not be true. There are many myths concerning dementia that you may have heard. Below are some common myths and the real information to dispel them.
Myth: Dementia is just a part of getting older.
Dementia is absolutely not a normal part of aging. It is a disease that is more likely to occur with age, but not everyone gets it. It is the result of abnormal changes in the brain. Despite the large number of people with some form of dementia, only 17 percent of people between the ages of 75 and 84 are diagnosed with the disease. Only 32 percent of people over 84 receive a dementia diagnosis.
Myth: If your older relative has dementia, you will get it, too.
Many people think that dementia is a hereditary disease. In truth, most cases of dementia don’t have much of a genetic link. In general, there’s no need for family members to be unduly concerned about developing dementia unless they have a parent who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease before the age of 65. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is very rare, accounting for only 5.5 percent of cases.
Myth: Aluminum causes Alzheimer’s disease.
Decades ago, there was some research that suggested a link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease. This caused people concern about drinking from aluminum cans and using aluminum pans. Since then, researchers using modern scientific methods have not found any reason for people to worry about using aluminum.
Myth: Memory loss is always a sign of dementia.
Although memory loss is a symptom of dementia, there are many other things that can lead to memory loss. Some of them can be resolved with treatment. Nonetheless, if your aging relative shows signs of memory loss, it’s best to schedule an appointment with their doctor.
If your aging relative is diagnosed with dementia, home care can help you to care for them as the disease progresses. Home care providers are trained and experienced professionals, so they know how to best help seniors with memory loss. Home care providers can keep your loved one safe and happy when family caregivers can’t be there because of work or other responsibilities. Home care providers can make sure the older adult bathes, eats, and has meaningful activities to fill their days.
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-dementia#1.-Dementia-is-inevitable-with-age
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/myths
https://www.veteranshealthlibrary.va.gov/142,41444_VA
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Palmetto, FL, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers of Bradenton. Call today: (941) 499-5946.
