There are many myths surrounding Alzheimer’s and dementia and, thanks to information provided by the program coordinator of The Alzheimer Society for Alberta and Northwest Territories, many of them were dispelled at a caregivers’ tea held last Thursday in Rimbey.
Lorraine Mills spoke to those in attendance about Alzheimer’s Disease, noting that it is one form of dementia.
“Dementia is an umbrella term for a variety of brain disorders,” she said.
Mills said there are many myths surrounding dementia.
One common myth is that if someone has it in an individual’s family, they will get it, too.
“Not everyone who is older is going to get dementia,” she said.
Alzheimer’s Disease can affect people as young as 40-years-of age and there is no cure for it.
However there are ways to slow it down such as social activity and challenging games and puzzles.
Memory loss does not necessarily mean one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, but can be simply part of the aging process.
All people with Alzheimer’s Disease do not become violent and aggressive.
People who have the disease often do know what is going on around them.
Mills encouraged caregivers to learn as much as possible about the disease. People who suffer from all forms of dementia need to be treated with respect and dignity.
“Be a friend,” she said. “Include, not exclude them and don’t back away.”
She said if a person suffering from dementia often talks about the past as if it is today’s reality, it is fine to go there with them and respond to their memories with positive, comforting words.
Currently, about 45,000 Albertans are living with dementia, a syndrome that affects their memory, thinking, orientation, judgment and ability to carry out daily activities. Statistics show that three out of four Canadians know someone with dementia.
About 20 people attended the caregivers’ tea, sponsored by the FCSS adult day support program, held at the Blindman Youth Hall in Rimbey.