General Long-Term Treatment Goals for Dementia

Dementia is a condition impacting brain function that can be difficult to treat. Recognizing the symptoms of dementia and matching basic treatment objectives to each can help you or a loved one manage its effects.

Definition

• The Mayo Clinic defines dementia as a cluster of symptoms affecting intellectual and social abilities severely enough to negatively impact daily functioning. There are several types of dementia, all of which are caused by various changes or conditions of the brain. Alzheimer's disease is one type of dementia.

Medical Conditions

• Several medical conditions can lead to dementia. Medline Plus lists several, such as Parkinson's or Huntington's disease. Brain tumors and strokes can also cause dementia. However, causes can be triggered by something as simple as a low amount of vitamin B12 in the body, so it is important to see your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms.

Symptoms

• There are several symptoms related to dementia---these can include memory loss, impaired speech, personality changes, difficulty with coordination or motor functions, paranoia, and several others. The Mayo Clinic indicates that several symptoms and causes of dementia can be reversed through proper treatment.

Medication

• There are several prescription medications available to help slow the onset of dementia. Dementia Care Central references Cholinesterase Inhibitors, medications that increase the amount of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which helps improve communication in the brain.

Individual Therapy

• While medications are helpful in slowing dementia, seeing an individual therapist can help address other symptoms, such as memory loss and anxiety. Dementia Care Central indicates that expressive arts therapy can help a patient remember past events in different ways, helping to combat memory loss.

Homeopathic Remedies

• Dementia Care Central discusses other ways to manage symptoms of dementia. A healthy diet has been linked to slowing the onset of Alzheimer's disease; gingko biloba, an herbal supplement, has been referenced in helping improve memory, along with several other dietary aids. As with any treatment, it is important you talk with your doctor to determine if these steps might be right for you.