How to Cope With Huntington's Disease Dementia

Huntington's disease is a form of dementia that is progressive and fatal. Huntington's disease is hereditary. If your parent has Huntington's disease you have a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene. If you have the gene for Huntington's disease, you eventually develop the dementia and other symptoms of Huntington's. Onset of symptoms usually begin between the ages of 30 and 45.

Instructions

• 1

  Consider genetic testing to find out if you are carrying the gene for Huntington's disease before deciding to have children, if one of your parents has the disease. Because there is no cure for the disease, some people prefer not to get tested. However, if you know you carry the gene you might want to consider adoption or in vitro fertilization with pre-implantation screening for the gene.

• 2

  Take tranquilizers and anti psychotic drugs as prescribed by your doctor to help control erratic movements, violent outbursts and hallucinations which are often early symptoms of Huntington's disease.

• 3

  Exercise regularly to keep yourself mentally and physically fit. Regular physical exercise has been found to slow down the progression of the dementia.

• 4

  Keep your mind sharp by reading, writing in a journal, playing board games and staying involved in hobbies. Remain socially active with friends and family to stimulate your memory.

• 5

  Join a support group if you are suffering from Huntington's disease dementia, or if you are a family member or a caregiver to someone who suffers. The Huntington's Disease Advocacy Center provides online support, and can put you in touch with local support groups.