Dementia Appointments in

Unfortunately, most types of dementia cannot be cured, but there are medications available to help manage your symptoms. Common medications include:

- Cholinesterase inhibitors: Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine are among the medicines that operate by increasing the levels of a chemical messenger important in memory and judgment. These medicines are most commonly prescribed to treat Alzheimer's disease, but can also be used to treat other forms of dementia such as vascular dementia, Parkinson's disease dementia, and Lewy body dementia.

- Memantine: Memantine regulates glutamate, a chemical messenger in the brain, that helps in learning and memory.

- Medications to treat other symptoms or conditions: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help treat other symptoms of dementia, such as anxiety, sleeplessness, depression, and hallucinations.

You and your caregiver can modify your environment and lifestyle to ensure your safety and provide stimulation. Common lifestyle changes used to manage the symptoms of dementia include:

- Maintaining a social life: Staying socially active helps stimulate the mind and slow the symptoms of dementia. Involve yourself with activities such as reading, games, and memory training to keep the mind engaged and active. These activities won’t cure dementia, but they have been shown to reduce symptoms.

- Exercising: 150 minutes of physical activity a week may help protect the brain against symptoms of dementia. Exercise can also help build strength and balance, which improves the physical safety of those with dementia.

- Getting quality sleep: Establishing a calming bedtime ritual can help improve sleep and reduce night-time disturbances related to dementia. Quality sleep has been shown to improve brain function, which can reduce the effects of dementia. Turn off the TV and wind down without noise or distractions for a better night’s sleep.

- Keeping a calendar: Detailed scheduling can help you remember appointments and activities.

- Maintaining a healthy diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet like the Mediterranean diet promotes cardiovascular health and general wellness. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 rich foods (like nuts and fish) can help delay the onset of dementia. Couple a healthy diet with physical activity for added health benefits.

Often, people with dementia may be agitated or unable to fully relax. The following therapies may help reduce agitation and encourage relaxation:

• Music therapy
• Pet therapy
• Aromatherapy
• Massage therapy
• Art therapy