What do you really know about Alzheimer’s? More than 5 million people in the United States have this progressive disease. Experts say that by the time you reach the age of 85, you have a 50/50 chance of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It’s a disease for which there is no cure.
Alzheimer’s Disease Doesn’t Kill People.
Alzheimer’s is actually in the top 10 causes of death in the United States. A person may live a decade or two after developing the early stages of Alzheimer’s, but once the brain’s deterioration affects one’s breathing, heart function, and/or the ability to swallow, death will happen.
Forgetfulness Means You Have Alzheimer’s.
Being forgetful does not automatically mean you have Alzheimer’s. It’s normal as you age to forget where you put your keys, and walk through your last steps to locate them. The difference is that you remembered the information after thinking about it. With Alzheimer’s, forgotten memories don’t suddenly return.
Herbal Supplements, Vitamins, and Minerals Prevent Alzheimer’s.
Interest in naturopathy has led to some people relying on vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements to prevent Alzheimer’s. Supplements like CoQ10, fish oil, ginkgo, and coconut oil have been tested and no link has been made to preventing Alzheimer’s. Some supplements should not be taken with certain medications, so it’s important to talk to a doctor before taking anything new.
Only Senior Citizen’s Get Alzheimer’s.
Not every person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is a senior citizen. Early-onset Alzheimer’s affects people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are 200,000 people in the U.S. that have early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Vaccinations Cause Alzheimer’s.
In 1997, Dr. Herman Hugh Fudenberg spoke at the International Public Conference on Vaccination. In his speech, he said that people who received a flu shot five years in a row were 10 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. He had no studies or facts to back up his claim. He also lost his medical license soon after when it came out he was using staff in his office to get prescription drugs for his personal use. To date, no study has found a link between vaccinations and Alzheimer’s.
When a parent is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it becomes stressful for everyone. You want what’s best for your mom and dad, and they’re terrified by their declining mental function. Elderly care professionals help reduce the strain by offering supportive services. Call an elderly care agency to learn more about services that help you and your parent.
If you or an aging loved one needs elderly care in Granite Bay, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
Sources:
http://m.alz.org/facts-and-figures.asp
http://www.casewatch.org/board/med/fudenberg/1995order.shtml
http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_alternative_treatments.asp
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