According to the Alzheimer's Association, about 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease today -- a figure that's expected to increase as the baby boom generation ages. The disorder causes neurons, or cells in the brain, to malfunction and die. The onset of Alzheimer's usually happens after the age of 60, but early-onset Alzheimer's can affect younger people. Though scientists have learned much about the illness in the last decade, many questions remain about the causes, stages, and treatment of Alzheimer's. It's not surprising, then, that patients' and caregivers' understanding of the disease is often off-target. Myths and half-truths only add to fear of the disease, which can prevent people from getting help that could improve their quality of life.

Here are 17 common myths about Alzheimer's -- busted.