There are some things that you hear about Alzheimer’s disease that are not necessarily true. In no particular order, these are 5 of the most common myths about Alzheimer’s:
#1 Memory Loss Happens As You Age
This is true to a certain extent. You might forget the name of a person you met last month. However, with this disease, the problem is much deeper than minor memory loss. It is a serious disease that causes the cells in your brain to malfunction and to die off. When this starts to happen, your loved one may start to forget names of friends from years ago, or might forget how to drive home on a familiar road.
Severe memory loss is NOT a normal part of aging.
It can be hard for you to tell regular, minor memory loss from serious memory problems that could signal a deeper problem. Alz.org has put together a helpful list of information so you can tell the difference. Sometimes memory problems can be caused by medications, and in other cases it could be Alzheimer’s or another kind of dementia.
#2 Alzheimer’s Disease Cannot Kill You
The unfortunate fact is that this disease does not have survivors. It kills off brain cells and causes major memory loss, as well as erratic actions and loss of normal bodily functions. While there are many helpful products that you can use to make the disease easier to manage, and there are drugs that can delay and manage symptoms for years, the disease is considered fatal.
#3 Only the Old Get Alzheimer’s
It is true that mostly older people get the disease, but it is possible for people in their 40;s and 50;s to get it. This is known as younger-onset Alzheimer’s. It is believed that there are five million people in the US with the disease, with 200,000 younger than 65.
#4 Drinking from Aluminum Cans Can Cause Alzheimer’s
In the 1970’s, aluminum used in food containers and kitchenware was thought to possibly lead to the disease. However, since then clinical studies have not found any role that aluminum plays in Alzheimer’s disease.
#5 Aspartame Leads to Memory Loss
This is the artificial sweetener that you might know better as Equal and Nutrasweet. It was approved by FDA in 1996. There is no scientific evidence, according to FDA, that would cause that agency to change its conclusions about the safety of the sweetener.
The Best Alzheimer’s Supplies for the Bathroom
It is true that there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet, but there are many things that we can use to help to manage the disease. These products improve the quality of life of the patient, and also the caregiver. The Millennia Raised Toilet Seat with Arms makes it easier for the patient to get on and get off the toilet. Cleanis Carebag Commode Liners are highly absorbent commode pail liners that prevent the bedside commode pail from getting soiled.
Please be sure to review our other helpful bathroom supplies for your loved one.