All About Alzheimer's Newsletter- Monday 11th May 2026

A reader shared recently that her father had a fall in the kitchen when he was alone.

Fortunately he wasn’t badly hurt, but it took a while before anyone realised something was wrong.

It’s the kind of situation many families don’t think about until something like this happens.

Some families decide to put a simple medical alert system in place so their loved one can call for help immediately if needed.

You can see how it works by clicking the link below, or speak directly with their team on 1-877-327-0779

Only available in the USA

Last time, we started breaking down some of the most common myths around dementia.

This week, we’re continuing that conversation by focusing on beliefs that can delay action and prevent people from getting the support they need.

This is one of the most damaging myths.

While it’s true that there is currently no cure for dementia, a diagnosis still plays a vital role.

Getting a diagnosis early opens the door to:

Research also shows that early intervention can help delay the progression to more advanced stages.

A diagnosis is not about what can’t be changed. It’s about what can be done next.

This belief can create a sense of inevitability and fear.

While genetics can play a role, for most people, family history alone does not determine whether they will develop dementia.

There are many contributing factors, and having a relative with dementia does not mean it is guaranteed.

This is another common misconception.

A diagnosis does not mean the end of options.

In reality, it is often the beginning of support, planning, and proactive care.

With the right approach, people can:

These myths don’t exist on their own. They often reinforce each other.

If someone believes there is no point in diagnosis, they may delay seeking help. By the time support is accessed, symptoms may already be more advanced, making planning and intervention more difficult.

The earlier someone seeks help, the more options are available.

A dementia diagnosis is never easy.

But it is not the end of the road.

It is a starting point for understanding, support, and making informed decisions about the future.

By challenging these myths, we can help more people take action earlier and access the support they need.

If this story resonates with you, you are not alone.

We share regular insights on our YouTube channel, covering topics such as caregiver guilt, emotional overwhelm, and the realities of caring for a loved one with dementia.

These videos are designed to support you with honest guidance and reassurance when you need it most.

Every week, we share an honest story from a caregiver — the things most people are too afraid to say out loud.

Thank you for sharing this. What you are describing is a deeply personal and often painful aspect of dementia.

Changes in personality, including humour and emotional responsiveness, can occur as different areas of the brain are affected. These changes are not a reflection of choice, but of how the condition is altering the way the brain processes emotion and social cues.

The sense of loss you describe is valid. You are not only adapting to practical changes, but also to shifts in identity and connection. Missing the qualities that once defined your relationship is a form of grief.

It can help to look for new ways that connection still shows itself, even if it looks different. A small smile, a moment of recognition, or simply sitting together can still hold meaning.

Grieving what has changed does not take away from what remains. It simply reflects how much that part of them mattered.

Harvey

If something’s been on your heart lately, let us know. We read every word. Your voice could offer comfort to someone else navigating the same journey.

Over the past year, I’ve been speaking more with companies about something that keeps coming up — how many employees are quietly balancing work with caring for a parent or loved one.

In many cases, its affecting stress, focus, and even whether people stay in their roles.

I’ve recently started working with a small number of organisations to support these employees in a simple, structured way — without adding pressure to HR teams.

If you work at a company where this might be relevant (or know someone in HR/People teams), feel free to reply and I can share more.

_{At All About Alzheimer's we're dementia professionals but we're not medical doctors or lawyers. The information we provide is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical diagnoses, treatment or any health related concerns and consult with a lawyer on any legal issue.}

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