As we age, dementia significantly impacts many lives. Currently, over 55 million people globally are living with dementia, and nearly 10 million new cases are diagnosed each year. This number is expected to skyrocket as the population ages, with projections estimating that by 2050, the global population could reach 139 million suffering from this condition.

Dementia is no longer the enigma it once was. Annual investments in dementia research exceed $3.9 billion provided by the U.S. government alone. As a result, scientists are pioneering new methods to protect brain health, leading to growing evidence that suggests the risk of developing dementia may be declining with each successive generation.

Despite the advancements in scientific understanding, public perception of dementia has shifted slowly, leaving behind entrenched myths and misconceptions. Here are six common myths about dementia:

Myth 1: “Symptoms Begin Later in Life”

Many believe that dementia solely affects the elderly. However, certain forms of the disease can manifest decades earlier. For instance, frontotemporal dementia is usually diagnosed between ages 45 and 65, and early-onset Alzheimer’s may even begin before age 65.

Importantly, dementia can develop long before a diagnosis. “Dementia begins 20 years before symptoms appear,” explains Dr. Antonella Santuzzione Chada, a neuroscientist at the Women’s Brain Project.

Amyloid and tau proteins build up in the brain over time, disrupting normal cell functions and contributing to cognitive decline associated with dementia. This slow buildup can occur for years, often unnoticed even for decades.

Even if symptoms are present, they may not be striking. Early warning signs can include subtle changes in mood, energy levels, or behavior, often dismissed as stress or normal aging. Many families reflect on these changes long before a formal diagnosis is made.

Therefore, if any changes in cognition, mood, or behavior persist for months, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Myth 2: “Dementia is All About Memory”

When thinking of dementia, most envision memory loss, such as forgetting loved ones’ names or getting lost in familiar places. Yet, dementia encompasses much more than memory-related symptoms, varying by type.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form, is often misconceived solely as a memory disorder. Many daily life aspects may be affected long before significant memory loss occurs, as Chadha notes, “Alzheimer’s disease is more than memory—what matters is how you function.”

Early indicators may include unusual movement patterns, repeated falls, or difficulty with routine tasks. For example, you might find yourself unable to prepare coffee the way you always have.

“It’s not just about getting lost because you don’t know the way,” Chadha emphasizes. “That comes much later.”

Symptoms also differ by type of dementia. Vascular dementia, the second most common type, primarily affects executive function in early stages, manifesting as difficulties with planning and concentration.

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Myth 3: “Dementia is Inevitable for Some People”

While genetics play a role, with certain genes like APOE4 increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s, lifestyle choices matter. Studies suggest that 45% of dementia cases are influenced by lifestyle, which can either mitigate or accelerate the condition’s onset.

To reduce risk, Chadha recommends regular exercise, nurturing social connections, monitoring vitamin D levels, ensuring adequate omega-3 intake, and prioritizing quality sleep.

Moreover, proper sleep hygiene involves consistent sleep schedules, promoting deep sleep, and maintaining a conducive sleep environment.

Keeping your brain active is equally crucial. “Continue to educate yourself, learn new skills, or play an instrument,” advises Chadha.

If you have concerns about dementia risks for yourself or loved ones, seek advice without delay. Early diagnosis can lead to interventions and lifestyle modifications to slow progression, whereas significant brain damage drastically limits treatment options.

Myth 4: “Symptoms are the Same for Men and Women”

Dementia symptoms can vary significantly between men and women. Researchers fear these differences may complicate detection, especially in women.

One recent study found that women with Alzheimer’s retain verbal memories longer than men, typically around 2.7 years longer. This leads to the perception that they are coping well until rapid decline occurs.

Women may experience symptoms akin to mental health conditions more than men, who often display behaviors like aggression and impulsivity.

Myth 5: “HRT Can Slow Cognitive Decline”

Due to higher rates of dementia in women, there’s interest in the relationship between hormonal changes during menopause and brain health. Estrogen seems to offer neuroprotective benefits, clearing amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer’s. However, during menopause, estrogen levels dip.

As a result, some wonder if hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also help prevent dementia. Despite this logical assumption, Chadha asserts there is insufficient evidence to support that HRT slows cognitive decline or dementia.

Myth 6: “Brain and Heart Health are Completely Different”

Dementia, while primarily a brain disease, is interconnected with cardiovascular health. The brain depends on a robust circulatory system for oxygen and nutrients; heart or vascular issues can adversely affect brain function.

Moreover, damaged blood vessels can increase the risk of strokes, which might block blood flow and damage brain tissue. Cardiovascular issues may impede the removal of waste from the brain, potentially intensifying the build-up of amyloid and tau proteins tied to Alzheimer’s.

Thus, protecting your brain health encompasses both mental and cardiovascular care. “For individuals at risk of heart conditions, I highly recommend getting brain scans like an MRI,” urges Chadha.

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