All About Alzheimer's Newsletter- Monday 4th May 2026

A conversation that comes up in many families is a simple one:

“What would you do if you needed help and couldn’t reach the phone?”

It’s not always an easy conversation, but it’s one that tends to come up as independence
changes.

One option some families explore is a medical alert system that allows the person to call for help from anywhere in the home.

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

When someone forgets where they’ve put their keys or struggles to recall a name, it’s easy to brush it off as “just getting older.”

But sometimes, it’s not.

One of the biggest challenges with dementia isn’t just the condition itself — it’s the misunderstandings that surround it.

These myths can delay people from seeking help, sometimes for years. And that delay matters more than most people realise.

Research suggests that the gap between first symptoms and a formal dementia diagnosis is often over three years. That’s three years without clarity, support, or access to the right care.

In this article, we’re breaking down some of the most common myths — and why letting go of them could make a real difference.

Myths don’t just create confusion — they create hesitation.

They make people second-guess what they’re noticing.
They delay conversations with doctors.
They push support further out of reach.

And the reality is, earlier diagnosis can open doors:

Let’s look at the myths that often stand in the way.

This is one of the most common — and most damaging — beliefs.

Yes, some memory changes can happen as we get older. But dementia is different.

For example:

Why this myth is harmful:
When people assume it’s “just ageing,” they delay seeking help — often until symptoms become more severe.

While dementia is more common in older adults, it doesn’t only affect people in their 70s, 80s, or beyond.

Younger-onset dementia can affect people in their:

In these cases, symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Changes in behaviour, mood, or performance at work might be attributed to stress, burnout, or mental health — rather than something neurological.

Why this myth is harmful:

Alzheimer’s is the most well-known form of dementia — but it’s not the only one.

It includes several different conditions, such as:

Each type has different causes, symptoms, and progression patterns.

When dementia is misunderstood as a single condition:

Getting the right diagnosis helps guide the right support and care.

If you’re supporting someone and something doesn’t feel quite right, trust that instinct.

Look out for:

You don’t need to have all the answers — just noticing patterns is enough to start the conversation.

If you’re worried about yourself or someone else:

It’s always better to check early than to delay.

They can begin the assessment process or refer you to a specialist.

Note changes in behaviour, memory, and daily functioning — this helps during appointments.

Having support makes the process easier to manage.

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 raising this. It is a thoughtful and important question, and one that many caregivers are beginning to face more often.

Social media can be both a source of support and a space that requires careful judgement. On one hand, it allows carers to connect, share experiences, and feel less isolated. On the other, it introduces questions around privacy, consent, and dignity, particularly when the person you care for may no longer be able to fully express their preferences.

The fact that you are asking this question suggests you are already approaching it with care and respect.

There is rarely a single clear boundary, but some carers find it helpful to reflect on a few guiding principles. For example, whether the content honours the person’s dignity, whether it focuses on your experience rather than exposing theirs, and whether it is something you would feel comfortable sharing if they were able to fully understand it.

It can also be helpful to distinguish between sharing for connection and sharing for exposure. Supportive communities can offer real value, especially in a role that can feel isolating.

At the same time, it is okay to set personal limits around what you choose to share. Protecting both your wellbeing and their dignity can exist together.

You are navigating something that does not have a simple rulebook. Thoughtfulness, like the kind you are showing, is often the best guide.

And you are not alone in trying to find that balance.

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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