Explore and Understand the 10 Myths about Dementia

This isn’t quite true. Dementia is a general term used to describe a range of symptoms. There are as many as 60 different types of dementia, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s. Many types of dementia share certain symptoms, but the underlying causes of each is different. For example, Alzheimer’s is a result of plaques and tangles in the brain that cause brain cells to die. Vascular dementia is caused by a lack of oxygen due to an event such as a stroke.

This is not correct. While the likelihood of dementia increases as we age, it’s by no means a normal part of ageing. According to research, approximately 30% to 45% of people over the age of 85 are likely to develop some form of dementia.

While there is a genetic component to some forms of dementia, having a relative with dementia by no means implies that all other members of the family will get it too. However, if a parent or grandparent developed Alzheimer’s when they were younger than 65 years, the chance of it passing on genetically is higher.

This is mostly but not entirely correct. In some rare cases, dementia can affect younger adults. Early onset dementia, between the ages of 30 and 65 years, is highly unlikely with just a 0.4% chance of occurrence.

Luckily, this one is not true. The symptoms of dementia range from subtle to severe. This means that many people with a mild case of dementia require only slight changes to their lifestyle to continue living a meaningful and active life. Dementia is however a progressive disease, meaning that some greater lifestyle changes may become necessary as symptoms worsen.

It’s no secret that memory loss can be an early sign of dementia (particularly Alzheimer’s Disease). But this isn’t always the case. Forgetfulness can simply be a result of stress, fatigue or a momentary lapse. Some types of dementia are more commonly signified by changes in mood and personality, language difficulties and decreased decision-making abilities.

Unfortunately, this is not true. Scientists have identified 12 risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing dementia. These include: • hypertension • less education • hearing impairment • smoking • obesity • depression • physical inactivity • diabetes • low levels of social contact • alcohol consumption • traumatic brain injury • air pollution While some of these factors can’t be avoided, reducing exposure to the risks may help avoid or delay the onset of dementia.

According to several studies, there is no strong evidence that this is true.

Changes in behaviour and mood, along with the frustration and confusion of dealing with other dementia symptoms can cause some people to respond with anger and irritability. But this is not the case for everyone. Proper pain management, compassionate care, a reliable daily routine, calm communication and a safe environment can significantly reduce the frustration and anger often suffered by people with dementia.

This is unfortunately false. Research in the US has shown that people aged 65 years and older live approximately four to eight years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, while some live as long as 20 years. Dementia kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.

TOTALCARE can offer expert advice on the myths about Dementia. Feel free to be in touch with your questions.