According to the Alzheimer’s Association, about 1 in 9 people age 65 and older (10.7%) have Alzheimer’s disease. Although Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, there are many others as well. While there is no cure for most types, there are treatment options for dementia that can improve symptoms, slow progress, and improve quality of life. That’s why an accurate and early diagnosis of dementia is so important. As a resource for older adults and their families in Hillsborough Township, we’re sharing some of the common treatment options for dementia here.
Treatment options for dementia
Medication
Despite the lack of a cure, much progress has been made in dementia research. As such, there are several medications your loved one’s doctor in Hillsborough Township may recommend to help slow memory loss and cognitive decline. These medications typically work by preventing the breakdown of important brain chemicals. Psychoactive medications, such as antidepressants, may also help by improving mood and boosting motivation. Also, drugs that increase dopamine in the brain may slow the progression of Parkinson’s-related dementia.
Lifestyle changes
Depending on the type of dementia, your loved one’s doctor might recommend lifestyle changes
such as a healthier diet, more exercise, or various brain training activities. For example, a healthy diet and regular exercise may prevent further cardiovascular damage in people with vascular dementia.
Supportive therapies
There are also some targeted therapies that can improve functioning for certain types of dementia. For example, those with primary progressive aphasia and other forms of speech loss may benefit from speech therapy. Occupational and physical therapy may also help those with movement disorders.
Psychotherapy as part of dementia treatment
A diagnosis of dementia is devastating, and your loved one may feel frightened, angry, and unsure of what to do next. Psychotherapy, particularly in the early stages of dementia, can help them cope with their feelings. Family therapy may also be helpful, as the diagnosis certainly affects you all as well, but especially if members of your family disagree about the next steps.
Download our Beginner’s Guide to Recognizing the Early Signs of Dementia.
Symptom management for dementia
In most types of dementia, symptoms tend to get worse over time. As such, your loved one will need regular evaluations to assess how well treatment is working, and their doctor might prescribe a range of treatments to address symptoms as they occur. For example, insomnia and anxiety are common in the late stages of dementia, and an array of medications can manage these symptoms.
Clinical trials for dementia treatments
Although there is no cure for dementia, a number of clinical trials have shown promising results. Ask your loved one’s doctor if this option might be appropriate for them. Clinical trials can be particularly helpful when you’ve exhausted other treatment options for dementia.
Memory care in Hillsborough Township
Although some types of dementia, such as those caused by a brain tumor, fluid on the brain, thyroid problems, and vitamin deficiencies, can be reversed, most are permanent. As such, if and when your loved one’s dementia progresses, there will come a point when they may need more care that can be provided at home in Hillsborough Township.
Memory care is a type of senior living that is specifically designed to nurture those with dementia. These communities offer specifically trained staff and individualized support with 24-hour supervision. The environment is secure and easy to navigate and may also feature soothing colors and lighting to create a relaxed, comforting atmosphere. Our memory care community in Hillsborough Township can help your loved one live their best life with therapy, structured activities, social opportunities, and even dining options designed to improve nutrition and independence. You’ll typically find the following in memory care communities:
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Onsite registered nursing team and ongoing staff training in memory care
- Medication monitoring and regular health assessments
- Support with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating
- Individualized wellness programs
- Three daily meals with personalized nutrition and dining programs
- Coordinated social and enrichment activities
- Housekeeping and linen services
- Scheduled transportation
- Secured building access and sensory alarms for prompt assistance
To learn more about the stages of dementia, download our Beginner’s Guide to Recognizing the Early Signs of Dementia today.
