If you or a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, there are going to be many questions you will have and much misinformation on the Internet. You may even get some advice from well-meaning family and friends on what you should do or what you can expect.
The best way to deal with a diagnosis of dementia, for your loved one or yourself, is to find the real information and locate a safe and affordable place for help. Parc Provence is such a place.
Below are 4 myths about dementia that need to be busted before you can move on and get the proper help you or your loved one needs.
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Dementia Causes Alzheimer
This is a longstanding myth many believe, but it is simply not true. Dementia is a cause of Alzheimer’s; however, it is not always the case. Genetics and lifestyle play a major part in the onset of Alzheimer’s, therefore determining which person will develop Alzheimer’s. There are individuals who have some form of dementia for many years without it becoming Alzheimer’s.
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Dementia is a Life Sentence
This is not true. While dementia is a troubling illness and a progressive disease. There are medications and activities that will help slow the disease and allow an individual to live full and better lives for longer.
The key is to catch dementia early so that the medications can begin to work. Alzheimer’s mostly affects people over 60 years old; however, there is early-onset Alzheimer, but that is rare. Each person’s dementia is different and begins and progresses at various rates.
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I Need to Correct the Person with Dementia
This is not true, in fact; you need to do the opposite and go along with what they say. Constantly being corrected leads to other issues like depression, being withdrawn, more confusion and possibly aggression.
There is nothing wrong with allowing a person with dementia to believe something that is not true. As long as they are not going to hurt themselves or anyone else. It will save you from arguing with them, which does no good for either of you.
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There Is Nothing You Can Do To Lower Your Risk of Developing Dementia
Actually, there are several things you can do to keep from developing dementia. Although there is no guarantee that you or your loved one will not develop this disease of the brain. Like all diseases, they can be either hereditary and you may not get them, or they are random and you have just as much of a chance as the next person to develop an illness.
One of the main things you can do is remain or get healthy. That means eating healthy, exercising and working every day on your brain. This could be puzzles, word searches, or anything that helps keep your brain in good working order.
You could prevent dementia from taking hold, or you may simply be delaying it. Either way, it is worth putting the extra effort in.
