The Best Way to Treat Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease has devastating symptoms that impact a sufferer's daily functioning and destroy his memories. He may become depressed or agitated and be totally unable to function on his own. Fortuantely there are several good ways to treat Alzheimer's that can slow its progression and improve functioning and quality of life. These treatments can be combined for the best results.

Drugs

• According to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, drugs are useful to manage cognitive symptoms in Alzheimer's patients, such as memory problems and impaired thinking and perception. Drugs do not cure Alzheimer's, but they can often slow its progress and minimize symptoms for a while. They is particularly effective when used as early as possible after diagnosis.

Therapeutic Activities

• Therapeutic activities can treat many Alzheimer's symptoms, such as cueing a person to memories, preventing isolate and depression, keeing a person focused and reinforcing their remaining skills. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation says that a variety of activities can be used for therapy. These include listening to music, watching videos, interacting with other people, walking, doing mild physical exercise and participating in pet therapy sessions. If the patient had a former interest such as drawing, singing or gardening, this can also be used for therapy.

Environment

• The environment in which an Alzheimer's sufferer lives can impact her symptoms, so a proper environment is an important form of treatment. For example, the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation says that lowering light at mealtimes can encourage a person to eat. Using soothing background music or sounds can decrease agitation. Placing objects such as photographs of family and friends and special momentos or keepsakes, can trigger memories.