Alzheimer’s Information: Five Myths about Alzheimer’s Disease (Part 2)
Reality: Just because someone has the disease does not mean his or her life is over. Many patients continue to live meaningful lives, just like anyone else would, and don’t feel as if their lives are over. They are still capable of showing love to family members and finding happiness in the things they do. Medications and treatments are also helping sufferers of the disease to cope. The most important thing to ensure a patient’s comfort and happiness would be to provide good services, pleasant surroundings and willing support.
Myth Four. I’ve heard stories of nice people becoming violent or at least extremely difficult after getting the disease. Is this true?
Reality: Just as there is no sure explanation of why Alzheimer’s disease develops, there is no sure way to predict how a person will behave because of the symptoms. The disease affects each person differently. For patients, the loss of memory and the state of confusion it causes can be a very frustrating experience. It can even be a frightening one, and some patients could react aggressively because of confusion or fear. By learning about the disease, adapting to the patient’s surroundings and changing the style of communication, caregivers and family members can prevent aggressive activity if it ever comes up.
Myth Five. People with Alzheimer’s disease are insane or unable to understand what is happening around them.