Medications for Dementia Treatment
Medications to specifically treat
Alzheimer's disease and some other progressive dementias are now available and are prescribed for many patients. Although these drugs do not halt the disease or reverse existing brain damage, they can improve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These medications may:
- Improve the patient's quality of life
- Ease the burden on caregivers (see Dementia Care)
- Delay admission to a nursing home.
Many
dementia research scientists are also examining whether these drugs may be useful for other types of
dementia treatment.
Cognitive Training as Part of Dementia Treatment
As part of dementia treatment, many people with dementia, particularly those in the early stages, may benefit from practicing tasks designed to improve performance in specific aspects of cognitive functioning. For example, people with dementia can sometimes learn to use memory aids, such as mnemonics, computerized recall devices, or note taking. Behavior modification -- rewarding appropriate or positive behavior and ignoring inappropriate behavior -- may also help control unacceptable or dangerous behaviors.
Family members and friends can also assist people with dementia in continuing their daily routines, physical activities, and social contacts. People with dementia should be kept up-to-date about the details of their lives, such as the time of day, where they live, and what is happening at home or in the world. Memory aids may help in the day-to-day living of patients in the earlier stages of dementia. Some families find that a big calendar, a list of daily plans, notes about simple safety measures, and written directions describing how to use common household items are useful aids.
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