Alzheimer’s Disease can be a scary and confusing fate for many elderly people in America. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about the disease. In this article, we will look at some of the common myths about Alzheimer’s disease and explain why they are false.
You Have to be Old to Get Alzheimer’s
Although rare, people can develop Alzheimer’s disease as early as your 30’s. This is known as early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Over 200,000 people have been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. As you age, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases.
Flu Shots Increase the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
This is false. This theory was hypothesized by a doctor whose license was suspended by the South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners. There have been a large number of mainstream studies that have found the opposite. In fact, flu shots have been linked to reducing the risks of Alzheimer’s disease.
Aluminum Causes Alzheimer’s
This myth has been around since the 1960’s. According to this myth, aluminum pots, pans, cans, and deodorants could potentially cause Alzheimer’s disease. There have been a plethora of studies that could not confirm a connection between aluminum and the disease.
Artificial Sweeteners Cause this Disease
Some people believe that artificial sweeteners like aspartame can cause Alzheimer’s disease. The FDA has not received any evidence of this; through well over 100 studies and trials.
You Can’t File an Estate Plan With Dementia
You can actually file for an estate plan if you are in the early stages of Dementia. The truth is that when you are first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you will still have the cognitive ability to produce the documents properly. One who is experiencing only the earliest stages of the disease can more fully understand the meaning and importance of the given documents, and therefore has the legal capacity to sign it. As the disease advances, you will probably lose cognitive recognition of what these documents can mean, as well as their consequences.
A Diagnosis is Fatal
While Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th leading cause of death in America, it is not an immediate death sentence. Most people can live for 5 to 20 years after their diagnosis. The average range is within 8-10 years. The symptoms can gradually progress from memory loss to the loss of physical and mental capabilities. In the final stages, a person with Alzheimer’s can forget to eat or drink, and can develop breathing problems such as pneumonia. During the later stages of this disease, quality, daily care is crucial. A home health aide or home nurse may be needed to help your loved one live as comfortably as possible during this time.
For over 50 years, Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing home health assistance to Staten Islanders suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and more.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact Safe Harbor by clicking here, or call us at (718)-979-6900.
