THE MYTHS

Myth 1: Memory loss is a natural part of aging

 

Fact: It's normal to forget things as we age and have occasional memory problems but with Alzheimer's and related dementia's, their memory will progressively worsen to a point where they don't recognize family and close friends. It affects both short and long term memory. The disease cause brain cells to malfunction and die hence their memories disappear along with it.

 

Myth 2: You won't die from Alzheimer's disease

 

There are no survivors who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The disease is very cruel as in the later stages as dementia progresses, it slowly strips away the patient's identity, ability to connect with others and heart warming memories that belonged to the individual. Since it is a progressive disease that affects the brains functions, the patient's personality will change, basic motor functions are impaired as well as the ability to communicate eloquently. According About Health, once dementia has entered the late-stage, death can be expected in 6 months to 1 year.

 

Myth 3: There is a cure for Alzheimer's disease

 

Currently there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. In fact, the damage dementia causes on the brain are almost all irreversible. At the time there is no treatment to cure, delay or stop the progression but there are medication available to slow the worsening of the symptoms and proper care can help the patients substantially. The Ministry of Health Canada released that they have joined the G7 partners and other global partners to coordinate international efforts in finding a cure for dementia by 2025.