| |
Dispelling The Myths
About Alzheimer Disease
(Advance January 18, 2004)
There are many myths surrounding Alzheimer Disease - about the cause,
the prevention, and the people who have it. These myths can add to the
stigma attached to the disease and stand in the way of our ability to
understand and help people with it.
Alzheimer Disease is a degenerative, fatal brain disorder that destroys
vital brain cells. It has been called an "insidious fog" and "sailing into
the dark". It most often occurs in people over 65 years, but can affect
adults at an earlier age. One in thirteen Canadians over the age of 65
years has Alzheimer Disease or a related dementia.
During National Alzheimer Awareness Month take this Quiz to test your
knowledge of the disease.
Because someone in my family has Alzheimer Disease, I will get it.
False. While genetics play a role in the disease, only a small
percentage of cases derive from genes that cause the disease.
Alzheimer Disease is not only an old person’s disease. True. People
in their 40s and 50s can also be affected. While age is the most
significant known risk factor, not everyone will develop the disease as
they age.
There is no cure for Alzheimer Disease. True. There is no cure for
the disease, but there are treatments and strategies than can help.
Memory loss means Alzheimer Disease. False. Many people experience
memory loss, but that in itself does not mean they have Alzheimer
Disease.
Aluminum causes Alzheimer Disease. False. There is no conclusive
link between aluminum and the disease.
Alzheimer Disease cannot be prevented. True. There is no conclusive
evidence that the disease can be prevented, but lifestyle choices that
keep mind and body fit may help reduce the risk.
Vitamins, supplements and memory boosters can prevent Alzheimer
Disease. False. Studies continue to be done to test the effectiveness of
these products. Mostly the findings are inconclusive.
If I’m diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease my life is over. False. With
early diagnosis, treatments and support services, people with the
disease can and do live meaningful, active lives.
All people who have Alzheimer Disease become violent and aggressive.
False. The disease affects each person differently. By learning about
the disease, and how to respond to it, aggressive responses may be
preventable.
People with Alzheimer Disease cannot understand what is going on
around them. False. Some people with the disease do understand what is
taking place around them; others have difficulty. Regardless, they need
to be treated with dignity and respect. (Source: Alzheimer Society of
Canada)
The Alzheimer Society provides a beacon of hope to people with the
disease and their families. Many people with dementia and their families
prefer to remain together as long as possible. In order to postpone
institutional placement and prevent caregiver burnout requires a range of
home care and community services and housing options, including respite
for the caregiver.
The Alzheimer society is an excellent source of support. You can:
learn about the disease, including coping strategies for the person
with the disease and caregiving strategies for family.
register with the Wandering Person Registry.
attend monthly support groups in Gravenhurst, Bracebridge,
Huntsville and Parry Sound. Or, join the Company of Good Cheer for
dinner and socializing.
attend a monthly support group at Almaguin Highlands Secondary
School on 3rd Thursday from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m..
Contact the Alzheimer Society of Muskoka (also covers West Parry
Sound) at 645-5621 or 1-800-605-2075.
Contact the Alzheimer Society of North Bay & District (covers East
Parry Sound) at 705-495-4342 or e-mail: asnb@onlink.net
Caregiver Meetings:
|
|
