What we see on the internet or in the news about preventing or treating dementia isn't always reliable. We help dispel some of the more common myths so you can seperate fact from fiction with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

1. What is the difference between Alzheimer's disease and dementia?

Dementia can be caused by a number of different diseases, with Alzheimer's disease the most common. Other diseases that cause dementia include vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia. Symptoms of the different forms of dementia can vary a great deal and can include memory loss, confusion, and mood and behaviour changes.

2. Are there more women than men with dementia?

Yes. In the UK 61% of people with dementia are female and 39% are male. This is mostly because women tend to live longer than men and as dementia becomes more common as we age, there are more women to develop the condition. Some studies have suggested that other factors may affect the number of women and men with dementia, but there is no firm evidence that women are more likely than men to develop dementia at a particular age.

3. Can aluminium affect the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease?

Despite occasional publicity, there is no convincing evidence that cooking with aluminium saucepans or foil increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's or dementia. During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminium emerged as a possible suspect in Alzheimer's but since then studies have failed to confirm a direct role for aluminium in causing Alzheimer's. Although it is difficult to research as aluminium is common in our environment, exposure to normal sources of aluminium is not thought to pose any threat.

4.Will eating particular foods help reduce my risk?

Maintaining a balanced diet is a good way to help reduce the risk. Oily fish, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, is an important part of a healthy diet. Some studies have linked higher omega-3 intake with a lower risk of dementia but current evidence does not support the use of omega-3 supplements to prevent cognitive decline.

There have been reports that turmeric, 'super foods' like berries, and particular drinks like red wine can lower the risk of dementia but there is no evidence that this is the case.

5. Does drinking alcohol decrease my risk?

Some studies suggest that moderate amounts of alcohol are associated with a lower risk but the research is not conclusive. Very heavy drinking is known to cause alcohol related dementia, also known as Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.

6. Does a head injury increase the risk of dementia?

We don't yet know. Some research has suggested that a serious head injury or trauma could increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's and dementia, though other studies have not found this link. Research is ongoing in this area to help us understand more.

7. How do I find out more?

If you are worried about your health or memory, it is a good idea to discuss it with your GP who can give you advice, run tests and refer you to a specialist if necessary.

SOURCE: Alzheimers Research