Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, isn’t reversible, nor is it currently curable. With dementia in general, seniors often don’t recover in the sense that the condition is no longer an issue that affects daily quality of life. That being said, there may be ways to manage symptoms, treat underlying issues, and slow the progression of the form of dementia affecting a senior loved one.
Treatable but Not Curable
Dementia.org notes many forms of dementia are treatable but not considered curable. In this instance, medication is often used to slow the condition’s progression or minimize symptom severity. For seniors living with naturally progressive forms of dementia like Alzheimer’s disease, there may also be ways to minimize symptom severity or progression. While this isn’t the same as complete recovery, making an effort to manage dementia of this nature often contributes to a higher quality of life. Methods and techniques that may be beneficial for seniors with dementia include:
• Memory-related games or apps
• Medication changes or adjustments
• Healthy diet and exercise habits
• Music and art therapy
• Behavior-related therapies or techniques
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care families may trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Dementia-Like Conditions that May Be Treatable
There are some reversible and treatable conditions that may mimic dementia or have similar symptoms. For instance, hypothyroidism sometimes contributes to memory impairment. This is why it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis once you start to notice signs of possible dementia in your loved one. According to WebMD, other conditions seniors may be able to recover from that could produce dementia-like symptoms include:
• Urinary tract infections
• A diabetes-related complication known as hypoglycemia—when blood sugar drops too low
• Vitamin B12 deficiencies
• Meniere’s disease and similar vestibular disorders
• Chronic depression
Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of homecare services. Families may rely on Assisting Hands Home Care Cincinnati to provide individualized care plans to meet their senior loved ones’ unique care needs. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that may stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
Alcohol-Related Dementia
According to Alzheimers.org, this is a type of alcohol-related brain damage related to the excess consumption of alcohol. Alcohol-related dementia, or ARD, may contribute to memory impairment and other dementia-related symptoms. Seniors might be able to recover from this form of dementia with appropriate treatment, which could involve counseling, therapy, or medication.
Adverse Medication Reactions
Nerve damage affecting certain parts of the brain sometimes occurs due to side effects or adverse reactions related to prescription medications, including medications not specifically for dementia. If detected and addressed early, medication-related dementia may be treatable. Medication imbalances may also worsen dementia symptoms in some seniors. If you believe this may be the case, check with your loved one’s doctor, especially if symptoms unexpectedly worsen or change when medications are prescribed or adjusted.
Sleep Quality & Dementia Management
A lack of sufficient sleep may either worsen existing dementia symptoms or contribute to symptoms that mimic dementia. Research presented at a recent Alzheimer’s Association International Conference suggests a link between sleep apnea and an increased risk of developing dementia. If your loved one isn’t sleeping well, making an effort to encourage better sleep patterns and habits may boost mental clarity and make it easier to manage dementia symptoms.
Aging in place may present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they may still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Cincinnati families may rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their aging loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. If you need professional home care for a loved one, Assisting Hands Home Care is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 513-993-5025.
