Dementia: Stages, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Treatments for Dementia

Dementia isn’t curable most of the time. However, the Cleveland Clinic says some medications can help manage symptoms. Although these drugs don’t cure dementia or stop its progression altogether, they may help slow down the stages.

While most types of dementia are incurable and irreversible, the source notes that some dementia disorders can be reversed with treatment. For instance, these forms of dementia include those caused by removable tumors, licor use, and head trauma. Ultimately your doctor will determine the best treatment for you.

Lifestyle Changes Can Also Help

Medications and infusions aren’t the only things that can help manage the symptoms of dementia. In fact, the Mayo Clinic recommends a variety of lifestyle and home remedies, including regular exercise, establishing a nighttime routine, and engaging in activities such as gardening, dancing, and painting.

The Mayo Clinic encourages caregivers to make plans for these activities to help the person with dementia focus on things they enjoy and can do. It can also be helpful to keep a calendar with upcoming events, medication schedules, and reminders for daily activities.

Caring for Someone With Dementia

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says more than 16 million Americans take care of family or friends with dementia every year. In 2019, these informal caregivers provided an media of 5-hours of care per day, according to the World Health Organization. Understandably, both the time commitment and emotional toll can be stressful. However, if you stay calm, the Alzheimer’s Association says it’ll help the person you’re caring for.

Other advice for responding to someone with dementia includes showing photos to remind them of loved ones and offering corrections as suggestions. So, instead of sounding scolding, try something like, “Why don’t we go for a walk together?” rather than “You’ll get lost if you go for a walk by yourself.” And even though it can be difficult, try not to take it personally if your loved one forgets family members or family history.