Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia. Old Age. One in the same? What’s the difference?
I always enjoy chatting with folks and hearing their thoughts about the differences or similarities of these terms.
What I hope to do is BUST some of these myths about the disease, because let’s be honest, we’ve all made assumptions:
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are the same
This is not true. Dementia is an umbrella term that is used to categorize a group of symptoms that cause cognitive decline.
There are many different types of dementia. Alzheimer’s is just ONE type of dementia.
Think of the word “FRUIT” which is another umbrella term. There are so many different types of fruits: Apples, oranges, pears, bananas, grapes, for example. So Dementia is to Fruit, as Apple is to Alzheimer’s. Get it? Alzheimer’s is a TYPE of dementia.
We hear about Alzheimer’s the most because it is most prevalent. It is currently the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. It’s the 5th leading cause in Mecklenburg county.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain. So unfortunately there is no cure, and it continues to advance until fatality.
Alz.org Umbrella Info-graphic
Everyone has a “touch” of dementia
ANNNT WRONG. No such thing as a “touch” of dementia.
Sure, we all forget things from time to time, or misplace an item (like my bonnet I wear at night. I can never find that thing LOL). But moments of forgetfulness and dementia are not the same.
Remember, dementia being that umbrella term used to describe a group of symptoms leading to cognitive decline? So it is not something everyone “gets” and it is not simple forgetfulness.
Alzheimer’s disease is an old age thing
BUST! Although age is one risk factor associated with Alzheimer’s it is not a definite. Not everyone who ages develops Alzheimer’s disease.
One of my residents lived past 103 years old – sharp as a tact!
There are also more and more diagnosis being made for individuals with “Early-Onset” or “Younger-Onset” Alzheimer’s disease. These individuals are typically in their 40’s and 50’s!
Also, Dr. Alois Alzheimer’s (founding researcher) did one of his early studies on a young lady who developed Alzheimer’s at the young age of 28! Whoa.
Alzheimer’s disease is all about losing memories
Close but, NO.
Yes, memory loss is a hallmark of the disease, but understand that it is not the only thing up for grabs.
As the disease progresses the individual losses their ability to think clearly, make sound decisions, manage their daily skills, eat, talk, walk, bathe, use the bathroom, swallow, and blink an eye.
Why? Because the brain cells are depleting. As those tiny brain cells diminish, they never regenerate – completely destroying all the pathways, and networks we use in our brains to communicate. These networks also help us to carry out all of our daily tasks.
So again, it is not simple forgetfulness, it is truly BRAIN FAILURE.
Say, WHAT?!
Alzheimer’s disease is the same for everyone
Nice Try, but INCORRECT! The day we are born, we are individualistic and have our own unique personalities. As we age this continues on.
The disease doesn’t change that. And the disease does not present itself the same for every person.
There’s no play by play book as to how the disease will develop for each person. There is no cookie cutter solution on how to provide care, support, and interventions for the individual.
Interventions and the plan of care must be tailored with a person and family centered approach.
If I am diagnosed with Alzheimer’s I cant lead an active, happy lifestyle
So far from the truth.
Once someone receives a diagnosis, they do not magically start losing all their brain cells at once. Remember it progresses over time.
If the individual has practiced early detection and is in the earlier stages of the disease, they may still be working, driving, and living a very high functioning lifestyle. It is possible to lead a happy life while still maintaining similar activities.
As the disease advances, those same activities will become more difficult, which is why it is important to understand planning and the power of adapting at each stage of the disease.
I’m Living My Best Life!
My Nana had Alzheimer’s disease, so will I.
Don’t claim it! I’ve often wondered this myself.
We’ve been hit in my family multiple times, and it’s easy to ask the question “Am I next?” Genetics may play a role, but they don’t determine the diagnosis.
This disease is so tricky and sneaky. You could come from a family that has no history of the disease, and still get the diagnosis. OR you could come from a family that has several members with the disease, and never be diagnosed.
As researchers continue to study this phenomenon there’s no true rhyme or reason and Alzheimer’s does not discriminate.
What are some other myths you’ve heard and are ready to BUST? I’d love to hear from you!
