Dementia patients have more treatment options available

• The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, followed by blood vessel disease of the brain (vascular dementia).
• Right now there is no medication or treatment which cures or reverses Alzheimer's or vascular dementia.
• However a group of drugs are now in use which can improve functioning and slow the rate of decline for some people, at least temporarily.
• A fourth medication, Namenda, has similar benefits by a somewhat different mechanism in the brain.
• So it can be added to one of the other drugs to improve effectiveness.
• Research has shown that taking one of these medicines can slow the rate of decline such that nursing home placement is delayed by an average of 6 months.
• Insomnia, for instance, can be a serious problem for the patient and especially for the caregiver.
• There are a variety of medications that can help the patient to sleep.
• Often sleep will improve with simple interventions, such as limiting caffeine, discouraging naps, and increasing exercise.
• Involvement in social activities or structured programs such as day care can improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's sufferers and decrease depression, agitation and social withdrawal.
• Perhaps the most helpful intervention in this disease is to support caregivers and families.
• Spouses are forced to accept a change in role from partner to caregiver.
• Support groups, counseling and respite care are often helpful in these situations.
• Respite is essential for caregivers, and can range from an afternoon out each week to short term residential placement.
• Of course, many families manage the challenges of Alzheimer's disease without outside help.
• However, if a family or caregiver is feeling overwhelmed, a little help can go a long way to re-establishing a positive framework to go forward.