The amount of care that a person with dementia requires will vary by the stage of the disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia, but there are some treatments available that have been shown to improve brain function and slow the disease.

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Medications

Depending on the patient and stage of the disease, doctors may prescribe one of several medications to improve brain function and slow symptoms. Medications are generally most effective in the early and middle stages of dementia and can help reduce symptoms, improve a patient’s overall quality of life. Medications commonly used to treat dementia include:

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Cholinesterase inhibitors

Memantine

CBD

In other cases, medication might be prescribed to treat other conditions that are common with dementia. Many patients will struggle with insomnia, depression, anxiety, and psychosis over the course of the disease and medications that eliminate or minimize those symptoms can help patients live a more fulfilling and comfortable life. Some of these medications include:

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Anxiolytics – used to relieve anxiety and agitation

Antidepressants – help improve both mood and function

Antipsychotics – used to treat psychosis and minimize hallucinations

Hypnotics – help patients fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night

Therapies and Alternative Medicine

Along with prescriptions, many patients find that natural medicines and various therapies are able to ease the symptoms of dementia and slow the progression of the disease.

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Diet

A diet rich with leafy green vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, and fish has been shown to have a positive impact on dementia symptoms. Foods like these are high in antioxidants and can help to protect cells from damage.

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Exercise

Even light physical activity like regular walks and gardening have been shown to promote brain health. While there isn’t yet evidence that proves exercise slows the progression of dementia, it has been shown to help ease symptoms like anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

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Brain Exercises

Studies have suggested that puzzles and brain training games like crossword puzzles and Sudoku may help slow the progression of dementia. Regularly reading books, playing board games, using a brain training app, and playing card games are other enjoyable brain exercises.

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Therapy

Different forms of therapy have been shown to ease the symptoms of dementia patients and help improve their quality of life. For example, art and music therapy allow patients to experience something they enjoy and stimulate their mind while also serving as valuable social interaction.

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Alternative Medicine

Many doctors now suggest alternative medicines such as acupuncture and massage therapy in addition to medication and traditional treatment. Massage therapy stimulates blood flow and acupuncture can help improve energy. Therapies like this can help ease symptoms and help release physical pain and tension.

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