Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, and it affects the brain by causing memory to deteriorate. While there is a lot of information and awareness out about Alzheimer’s disease, there are also a few misconceptions perpetuated about it that you may not realize you believe in. The following three myths about Alzheimer’s are the most prevalent, and here is the truth behind this misinformation.
Only Elderly People get Alzheimer’s
Many people equate Alzheimer’s disease to going senial or having a “senior moment.” Although it is the most common for people over the age of fifty to develop Alzheimer’s, it is also possible to develop early-onset Alzheimer’s as young as thirty. If you have a family history of Alzheimer’s, then it is better to talk to your doctor about it now than to put it off because the sooner Alzheimer’s is treated then it won’t progress as quickly. On the other hand, there are warning signs of Alzheimer’s in older people that are often taken for granted. It is normal to forget a few things as we get older, but if this forgetfulness reaches an unusual extreme, such as misplacing a toothbrush in the refrigerator, then that is a red flag.
Someone Can’t Tell if They’re Suffering from Alzheimer’s
Because Alzheimer’s involves the memory, you might be concerned that your loved one wouldn’t realize if they’ve forgotten something, which means you won’t see the warning signs until it’s too late. However, people in the early stages of the disease can easily notice if they have unusual gaps in memory. Again, timing is key with Alzheimer’s. The longer the symptoms go unchecked, the less likely a person is to realize what is happening to them. It’s important to always treat a person with Alzheimer’s with respect, and to take them seriously, even if they are mistaken about something, instead of treating them in a patronizing manner.
All Nursing Homes are the Same
Lastly, a nursing home may be indirectly related to Alzheimer’s disease, but it is an important point if you plan on moving your loved one to a nursing home. Not all nursing homes carry out the level of care that they promise. And unfortunately, many nursing homes can harbor abuse and neglect of their patients. For your loved one with Alzheimer’s, it is especially important to take them to the right nursing home. Their mental impairment makes them a target for manipulation and abuse, and they might not be able to tell you this is happening when you visit.
If Your Loved One Has Suffered From Nursing Home Neglect, Contact Snyder Law Group
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