September 21 is World Alzheimer’s Day. Although research and awareness is changing how people treat and care for those dealing with dementia, misconceptions still exist. There are many myths about what dementia is, who gets it, and how it manifests. Myths and misconceptions add to the stigma around memory loss and make us lose touch with the reality patients are dealing with. Dementia is a group of symptoms that affect memory and reasoning. Alzheimer’s disease is a specific cognitive impairment that falls under the dementia umbrella. Currently there is no cure and researchers are still looking to find the cause for diseases like Alzheimer’s. It is important, as the baby-boomer generation ages, to make sure the general public is educated on common myths and misconceptions about dementia. 1. Dementia Is a Normal Part of Aging Although, age …show more content…
If you notice signs that someone you know is losing their memory make sure they see a doctor as soon as possible. This is not something that happens to everyone. Memory problems can be completely benign as long as they do not affect daily functioning, reasoning, lack of judgement, and communication. Only a doctor can tell you if forgetfulness is troubling. 2. All People Who Live with Dementia Become Aggressive and Violent Dementia affects everyone differently. It is true that some people dealing with dementia become aggressive. The loss of memory is extremely frustrating and can become frightening. This can lead to aggression and sometimes violence but this reaction is not the norm. By adapting a person’s surroundings, and changing the way you communicate with them, you also change their response. If you notice a loved one with dementia becoming scared or aggressive, talk to their doctor. They can give you tips to alter your behavior and their environment to make this kind of response less likely. 3. People with Dementia Do Not Understand What Is Going on around