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Busting Some Prevalent Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Myths

May 20, 2022 0 Comment Category: Betenu Health

Alzheimer’s disease is so complex that researchers continue to try to understand it. When an Alzheimer’s disease patient cannot live alone any longer, a senior assisted living facility is a way of ensuring that they have the attention and care they require at a safe location. People mistakenly feel that every Alzheimer’s disease patient requires that kind of assistance, but this is not true. Here, our assisted living home will discuss a few more misconceptions about this health condition.

Alzheimer’s Disease And Memory Loss Are A Usual Part Of The Aging Process

Some mild problems with memory are likely during aging, but Alzheimer’s disease is no normal aspect of this process. The disease degenerates human brain cells over time, causing memory loss, changes in human thinking, and confusion.

Alzheimer’s disease patients may have symptoms such as trouble finishing familiar tasks and solving issues as well as forgetfulness interfering with their daily lives. A case of usual memory loss entails forgetting a term and recalling it later. Having trouble holding and understanding conversations is a sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease And Dementia Mean The Same

Some may use the terms Alzheimer’s disease and dementia interchangeably, but they do not mean the same. Dementia is a word that applies to an array of health conditions causing unusual brain changes. Alzheimer’s disease is only a type of dementia.

Alzheimer’s Disease Affects Only The Brain

The process of brain cells getting degenerated is among the characteristics of this disease, but it can also induce physical changes. The functions of the human brain are associated with the other body parts, so Alzheimer’s disease can gradually induce stiff muscles, weakness, fatigue, sleep cycle changes, seizures and incontinence.

It Is Not A Fatal Disease

Besides the cognitive impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the physical impact can contribute to a health complication or two that causes death. Because of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease patients tend to be incapable of noticing and seeking help for their physical illnesses before those become serious. A common Alzheimer’s disease-related and dementia-related complication is pneumonia, which often occurs due to a food item getting into the human lungs during an impaired swallowing situation.

It Only Impacts Older Adults

While dementia and Alzheimer’s disease symptoms usually start after people turn 65, there are cases of younger-onset Alzheimer’s. It tends to be overlooked as it is uncommon. Doctors are unaware of the reason for Alzheimer’s disease in younger people, but it is a genetically inherited condition in some cases.