You may have seen it on the news or social media – two new studies suggest soda pop may be linked to stroke and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. The studies appeared in the journals Stroke and Alzheimer’s & Dementia.

If you’re a soda pop drinker – sugary or diet – this may give you pause for thought. Here are four things to consider:

Recently, I came across an article that struck a chord with me. Terry Jones, a member of the comedy team, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, announced his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in September 2016. A newer interview provided an update about Terry’s condition, and also a request from his family: raise awareness about FTD and help others cope with it.

As an advocate and educator of dementia care practices, I want to honor their wishes by sharing more information about this less well-known form of dementia.

Memory loss is the most commonly known disability connected with dementia. Yet, dementia is so much more than just a memory disorder. Here are some other types of disorders that may occur with dementia:

People are frequently puzzled by statements they hear about older adults and dementia. If you have an aging loved one with dementia, chances are you may be confused yourself. Let’s untangle three serious misconceptions often heard about dementia.

By Deborah Bier, PhD, director of special populations

I wish I could tell you about new research that shows us exactly what causes Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia or provides a clear way to a cure, but I cannot. Nevertheless, some recent research offers hope to people living with dementia and their families. Here are a few studies worth learning about.

We have a widespread idea in our culture that receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is akin to the end of life itself. When it comes to something like early-onset Alzheimer’s, occurring in people typically in their 40s-60s, the pessimistic view about living with dementia is even stronger.

By Deborah Bier, PhD, director of special populations

• Schizophrenia
• Diogenese syndrome
• Isolated syllogomania
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Various types of dementia

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, by the end of life, 1 in 3 elders will have some form of dementia. Despite the large number of people affected, there are still many misunderstandings and myths about dementia. Knowing more can help us better understand and care for those who live with dementia. This article will address five of the most common myths.