In this post, we are debunking five common myths about dementia. Why is this so critical? Because believing these falsehoods is a major barrier to care.
When families dismiss dementia as "just old age" or a "spiritual attack," they delay seeking medical help. This delay leads to poor disease management, rapid caregiver burnout, and unnecessary suffering. On the other hand, early diagnosis and accurate information open the door to better symptom control and a significantly improved quality of life.
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Myth 1: Dementia is a normal part of aging
The Reality: While age increases risk, dementia is not a natural consequence of getting older. Many people live into their 90s and 100s with their cognitive faculties perfectly intact.
The difference lies in the severity:
• Normal Aging: Forgetting where you put your car keys.
• Dementia: Forgetting what a key is used for or how to get home.
If memory problems are severe enough to interfere with daily life—such as getting lost in familiar places or struggling to follow a conversation—it is a medical condition, not a natural part of growing old. Please, seek medical help if you or a loved one develops problems with memory.
Dementia is not normal, it is a disease of the brain.
