Help for Dementia

Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that can be caused by several brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, injuries, infections and Huntingdon's disease. Symptoms of dementia include memory loss and cognitive and behavioral changes. Modifications to your usual routine can help you cope with dementia. In some cases, medication may improve mental functioning.

Tips for Those Affected by Dementia

• Posting notes at various locations throughout your house can help you to remember to complete important tasks, such as turning off the oven or locking the door. If you have trouble remembering the names of common household items, it can be helpful to post the name on the item.

  Important telephone numbers, bank account information, your name and address and other information should be placed in several locations throughout your house. If you misplace one list, you may be able to find another list. Make an additional copy of the list and give it to a friend or relative for safekeeping.

  Doing work that requires multiple steps or math skills can become harder when you have dementia. Psychiatry 24X7 recommends performing difficult tasks at the time of day when you are feeling your best.

  It is not unusual to feel angry about the changes taking place. Anger can cause you to strike out at the people who are trying to help you and make relationships with family and friends difficult. Counseling may help you cope with the changes in your life.

Caring for a Person with Dementia

• Caring for a person with dementia can be challenging. Because of the memory loss she is experiencing, your friend or relative may not realize that she has a problem and may not appreciate your efforts to help. Drastic behavioral changes can occur, causing a normally placid person to become angry, paranoid and irritable. Understanding the source of the anger can make it a little easier to deal with outbursts.

  Establishing a routine can help a person with dementia feel more in control. If a doctor's appointment or other event disrupts the schedule, allowing plenty of quiet time after you return home will help the person readjust.

  Encourage your relative or friend to keep doing enjoyable activities, such as gardening, dancing or baking. You may have to supervise some of these activities, but continuing to participate in familiar activities will allow the person to retain some control of his life.

Medication

• Treating underlying conditions causing dementia can sometimes resolve or reduce symptoms. If dementia is caused by Alzheimer's disease, several medications are available to prevent acetylcholine, a brain chemical needed for memory and learning, from breaking down. Behavioral problems can be treated with anti-anxiety medication, antidepressants or anti-psychotic medications.