Dementia describes a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities, and they are severe enough to interfere with daily life. While many conditions cause dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is a typical cause in older adults. Understanding dementia is the first step toward managing its effects on you or a loved one. Here are some questions about the condition, offering clarity on what to expect:
Is Dementia Normal?
Dementia is not a normal part of aging. While many older adults live their entire lives without developing dementia, minor memory lapses do happen with age. It results from damage to brain cells, and this damage interferes with the ability of brain cells to communicate with each other. When brain cells cannot communicate normally, thinking, behavior, and feelings are affected.
What Are My Treatment Options?
While there is no cure for most progressive dementias, various treatments and strategies are available to help manage symptoms. Your doctor will create a care plan tailored to your specific needs, and this plan might evolve as the condition progresses. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and support quality of life for as long as possible.
Treatment approaches typically combine medications with non-drug therapies. Non-drug therapies may include occupational therapy to adapt your environment, making daily tasks easier and safer. You may also receive support for managing changes in behavior and sleep, because these are common challenges for individuals with dementia. These therapies provide practical ways to cope with the changes that dementia brings.
A comprehensive care team supports individuals with dementia. This team may include doctors, nurses, and therapists who work together to provide coordinated care. To provide support to both the individual and their family, they help navigate the complexities of the condition. Regular check-ins allow the team to adjust the treatment plan when necessary.
What Lifestyle Changes Help?
Certain lifestyle adjustments may support brain health and help manage some symptoms associated with dementia. Physical activity is a key component, so you may want to incorporate regular movement into your routine. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, also supports overall well-being. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities helps keep the mind active.
What Medications Do I Need?
Medications for dementia do not cure the disease, but they may temporarily manage cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors are a class of drugs prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease; they work by boosting levels of a chemical messenger involved in memory and judgment. Another medication, memantine, is approved for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s and works differently to regulate a separate brain chemical.
Doctors may also prescribe medications to address related symptoms, such as:
- Sleep disturbances
- Agitation
Your doctor can determine the appropriate medication and dosage based on your specific symptoms and overall health.
Get Treated for Dementia
Understanding dementia and its treatments enables you and your family to make informed decisions. A medical diagnosis provides access to support and opens the door to management strategies that can help. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dementia, a comprehensive evaluation is the next step. Contact a neurology clinic to schedule an appointment and discuss your concerns with a specialist.
