World Alzheimer’s Month: 10 Common Myths About Alzheimer’s Disease

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and help families better understand brain health, risk factors, and planning for the future.

Memory loss is a major concern for many Americans as they age. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60–80% of dementia cases. As our population ages, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s is expected to continue to grow.

Understanding the facts can help take some of the fear and uncertainty out of Alzheimer’s. Here are 10 common myths about the disease and what families should know instead.

Myth #1: Aging Means Alzheimer’s Is Inevitable

Dementia is not a normal part of aging. While age is the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s, developing the disease is not inevitable. Many people live into their 80s, 90s, and beyond without developing Alzheimer’s.

Some memory changes can be a normal part of aging. But memory loss that interferes with daily life may be a sign of Alzheimer’s or another condition and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Myth #2: Genetics Decide My Future

Having a family history of Alzheimer’s can increase your risk, but it does not mean you will develop the disease.

In most cases, Alzheimer’s does not have a single genetic cause. Genes, health, lifestyle, and environmental factors can all play a role. Researchers continue to study how physical activity, diet, smoking, and other lifestyle choices may affect brain health.

Myth #3: Plaques and Tangles Mean You Will Get Alzheimer’s

Amyloid plaques and tau tangles are hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. But the connection between these brain changes and a person’s symptoms is complicated.

Tests can detect certain Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain. However, those findings cannot always predict whether or when someone will develop symptoms. Researchers are still learning why Alzheimer’s affects people differently.

Myth #4: Brain Games Are the Best Way to Protect Your Brain

Crossword puzzles and brain games can be enjoyable ways to challenge your mind, but no single activity has been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s.

Keeping your mind active may help support brain health as you age. Reading, learning a new skill, playing games, taking a class, making art, or trying something new are all ways to keep your mind engaged.

Myth #5: Mental Exercise Is All You Need

Brain health is about more than keeping your mind busy. Staying socially connected may also be important.

Research has linked social engagement with better cognitive health, while social isolation may increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Spending time with friends and family, volunteering, joining community activities, and simply staying connected can support your overall well-being.

Myth #6: Physical Exercise Doesn’t Matter as Much

Physical activity is good for your body and your brain. Regular exercise supports heart health and can help manage conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which are also connected to cognitive health.

Research suggests that physical activity may help support thinking and memory as we age. While exercise has not been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s, staying active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

Myth #7: Only Cardio Helps Your Brain

Walking, swimming, and other aerobic activities are great ways to stay active, but they aren’t the only options.

Strength training and balance exercises can also be part of a healthy exercise routine as you age. The important thing is to find safe activities that are appropriate for your health and abilities and that you can do regularly.

Myth #8: Supplements Can Prevent Alzheimer’s

No vitamin or supplement has been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Be cautious about products that claim to prevent memory loss or dementia. Talk with your healthcare provider before taking supplements for brain health. Instead, focus on an overall healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

Myth #9: Alcohol Protects Your Brain

Alcohol should not be considered a way to prevent Alzheimer’s. Drinking too much alcohol can damage the brain and cause other serious health problems.

If you drink alcohol, talk with your healthcare provider about what is appropriate based on your age, medications, and overall health.

Myth #10: Hearing Loss Has Nothing to Do With Dementia

Hearing and brain health are more closely connected than many people realize. Studies have found that older adults with hearing loss have a greater risk of developing dementia.

Hearing loss can often be treated. One large study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that hearing aids slowed cognitive decline in older adults with hearing loss who were already at higher risk for dementia.

If you or a loved one is having trouble hearing, don’t ignore it. A hearing evaluation and treatment, when appropriate, can improve communication and may also be an important part of supporting brain health.

Plan Ahead

World Alzheimer’s Month is also a good reminder that families don’t have to wait for a crisis to start planning.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, planning early gives you more time to make important decisions about future care, finances, and legal matters. We can help you create a legal and financial strategy to pay for care while protecting your savings.

📞 Call us at (207) 848-5600 or visit our Contact page to schedule a consultation.