When it comes to Alzheimer’s disease, misinformation can be more than confusing—it can be harmful. As science evolves, so must our understanding of what this disease is and isn’t. Let’s take a closer look at the myths that linger and the facts that deserve more attention.
Myth: Dementia is the same as Alzheimer’s disease.
Fact: Dementia is a general term, Alzheimer’s is a specific disease.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. Dementia is an umbrella term that describes a range of symptoms that affect a person’s ability to perform everyday activities on their own. There are many different types and causes of dementia including Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease – the list goes on. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Not everyone will develop dementia, and recent research shows a large portion of the risk is linked to modifiable factors. Based on an evaluation of the latest research and evidence, the 2024 update of the Lancet Commission on dementia provides insights into 14 risk factors which includes high “bad” cholesterol, vision and hearing loss, diabetes, smoking and physical inactivity.
Myth: Alzheimer’s disease is a normal part of aging.
Fact: It’s a progressive brain disease that causes memory loss, confusion and other cognitive decline.
Normal aging can include occasional forgetfulness such as not recalling a name or misplacing an item, but Alzheimer’s causes a persistent decline that interferes with daily life such as failing to recognize a family member. While it’s true that your risk of the disease increases with age, it’s not a normal part of aging. Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the buildup of abnormal proteins (amyloid plaques and tau tangles) in the brain. Scientists are working hard to understand why these proteins build up and find ways to prevent this from occurring.
Myth: Alzheimer’s is always hereditary.
Fact: Family history is not necessary for a person to develop Alzheimer’s.
Having a parent, brother or sister with Alzheimer’s increases a person’s risk, but doesn’t mean they will definitely develop it. While genetics does play a role, family history is not necessary for an individual to develop Alzheimer’s. Age is the strongest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s in later life. There are also modifiable risk factors, such as heart health, physical activity, and nutrition that also contribute to a person’s risk.
Myth: Aluminum in cookware causes Alzheimer’s.
Fact: Everyday exposure to aluminum from cookware, foil, antiperspirants or food has not been shown to cause Alzheimer’s disease.
What recent research does show: Some studies have found higher aluminum levels in the same area of the brain where amyloid plaques, a hallmark feature of the disease, are found. However, that does not prove causation. Investigators suspect that aluminum may accumulate as a consequence of the brain changes caused by the disease. When brain cells become damaged by Alzheimer’s disease, they don’t function as they should, including the blood-brain barrier. A damaged barrier allows things to enter the brain tissue that in a healthy individual wouldn’t get through, like aluminum, leading to the build-up of these particles.
Myth: There are no treatments for the Alzheimer’s.
Fact: While there is no cure yet for Alzheimer’s, there are medications and therapies available that can help manage symptoms and slow progression.
This includes both symptomatic therapies and newly approved disease-modifying treatments that can slow decline in certain patients. In the last few years, two drugs that target amyloid protein in the brain received FDA approval after rigorous, large phase 3 trials showed they slowed progression in those with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Early diagnosis remains important to maximize treatment options.
Myth: Vaccines can cause Alzheimer’s.
Fact: Vaccines are safe and effective, and there is no evidence that they can cause Alzheimer’s disease.
The truth is research has shown that those who get vaccinated against common viruses, including flu, shingles, pneumonia, and tetanus and diphtheria, with or without pertussis, have been associated with a reduced risk for dementia. In fact, a recent study shows the strongest evidence yet that a vaccine can reduce risk. While research will continue to look at the correlation between routine vaccinations and protecting brain health, it’s important to remember that, in addition to individual protection and prevention, vaccines also contribute to community health.
Myth: Supplements can prevent Alzheimer’s.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
High-quality trials and expert reviews show no consistent evidence that taking vitamins or herbal extracts of over the counter “brain” formulas prevents or delays the disease. Most of the marketed claims for these types of products rely on weak or anecdotal data and aren’t tied to rigorous testing results.
Myth: There is nothing you can do to prevent Alzheimer’s
Fact: There are things you can do to lower your chances of developing Alzheimer’s, and prevention treatments are currently being tested in clinical trials.
Factors such as exercise, nutrition, sleep, and heart health influence a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Results from the recent U.S. POINTER study suggest that improving these and other factors may improve a person’s cognitive abilities in later life. We will find out later this year if the U.S. POINTER study intervention affected the buildup of the abnormal proteins that cause Alzheimer’s. While you can “do all the right things” and still develop Alzheimer’s disease, doing those things may have delayed the onset of Alzheimer’s by several years. Lastly, there are two large, ongoing Alzheimer’s prevention trials (AHEAD 345 and TRAILBLAZER-ALZ 3) that are studying whether anti-amyloid therapy can delay the onset of the disease.
Understanding Alzheimer’s is an evolving journey and research is the key to continued progress. How can you help? Share the Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry with friends and family. Many prevention studies are looking for healthy adults so please check out the latest studies listed on the Registry.