The Effects of Treatment for Dementia

The effects of dementia treatment depend on the type of dementia and the specific needs of the patient.

Definition

• Dementia refers to a group of symptoms attributed to a variety of disorders and conditions that damage the brain. Some forms of dementia, such as that caused by acute alcoholism, may be cured, while others, such as Alzheimer's disease, may not.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of dementia may include memory loss, impaired language and speech, diminished ability to perform daily tasks, behavioral disturbances, mood disturbances, hallucinations, and delusions.

Treatment

• The goal of treatment is to cure the dementia, if possible. If the cause of dementia cannot be cured, the goal then becomes to slow the progression of symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life for as long as possible.

Types of Medication

• Aricept, Exelon, Razadyne, and Namenda are drugs used to manage symptoms of dementia. Those with dementia may also use antidepressants, sedatives and other medications, based on their specific needs.

Considerations

• In cases of dementia in which the underlying disease cannot be cured, palliative care aims to provide the patient with comfort and relief from their symptoms. According to the Department of Pain Medicine and Palliative Care at Beth Israel Medical Center, goals of long-term treatment will change according to the changing needs of the patient.