Methods to Improve Dementia

Dementia is a disease that ravages the brain, causing memory, language and perception loss. There is no cure; however, there are ways to improve symptoms and help give sufferers back some of their lost independence. So if you are newly diagnosed with dementia, there is hope and there are options available to you. New medications are being developed daily, and those coupled with a good diet and exercise plan can be very effective in helping combat this serious disease.

Medications

• After being diagnosed with dementia, it is imperative that you research your medicinal options as soon as possible. Most medications that treat the disorder are most effective when treatment begins in the early stages. Dementia has an ever-growing list of medications that can help relieve symptoms and give you more freedom. Donepizal is one such medicine that can delay symptoms of dementia for up to one year. Other drugs such as Exelon can improve cognitive functioning in the early and middle stages of dementia. High cholesterol can also be a factor that hinders improvement by causing plaque to form in areas of the brain. Cholesterol-reducing medications such as Lipitor may be prescribed if your levels are too high. Once levels are lowered, cognitive improvement often does occur.

Diet

• With medication taken care of, make sure the rest of your life is as healthy as possible. This starts with what you put in your mouth. Many research studies, including one conducted by the Chicago Health and Aging Project, have concluded that diet can play a role in improving symptoms of dementia. It appears that what is good for heart health is also good for brain health. This means cutting out fried and fatty foods, adding tons of color to your plate via fruits and vegetables, and replacing red meat with brain-loving, omega-3-loaded fish. Brain power is also increased by vitamin B, which is found in abundance in dark, leafy vegetables such as kale, as well as in nuts and sunflower seeds.

Exercise

• There are very few things about dementia that you can control, and the loss of independence is often overwhelming. It is vital to hang on your mental and physical capabilities as long as possible. Exercise must be included in any plan you develop to help fight your disease. Dementia causes decreased mobility, muscle mass loss and a much higher risk or falls and fractures. Exercise targets neurons in your brain that relay messages to the body. Frequent exercise can lead to increased balance and endurance and may help mental functioning by alleviating some confusion and comprehension difficulties. Yoga and Pilates are good options to consider with many gyms offering specific workouts for older members.