For many people who have an elderly relative, Alzheimer’s disease is one condition that is devastating.
Often confused with dementia, which falls under the umbrella of Alzheimer’s, it is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that impacts memory, thinking, and behavior. Of course, these far-reaching impacts, not only impact the individual who has the disorder but also impacts deeply on their family and caregivers.
At the time of writing, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are an array of treatments and strategies that can help to manage the symptoms and improve overall quality of life. So, if you have a family member who has Alzheimer’s disease, here are some of the treatment options that may be available to you.
Medications
There are medications available to address the cognitive decline in those who have Alzheimer’s disease.
Some of the drugs include cholinesterase inhibitors, which can help improve communication between brain cells and prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory and learning.
Next, there is memantine, which regulates glutamate, which is a chemical involved in learning and memory. In Alzheimer’s, glutamate can become overproduced, which can damage brain cells. These medications cannot treat Alzheimer’s but are readily available for those who have the diagnosis, either through GPs or through psychiatrists who work in care homes in Mansfield with Baily House. The latter is often preferred to at-home prescribing, as there are medical professionals available to note side effects and manage any issues that may occur.
Behavioral/Psychological Treatments
Anyone who has a relative with Alzheimer’s can attest to the fact that they experience behavioral changes, such as aggression, agitation, anxiety, and depression.
There are psychological approaches to help with this, which can include routine establishment, as well as environmental adjustments. The latter helps minimize noise, remove clutter, and create a calming environment.
In cases where the aforementioned behavioral symptoms persist, doctors may offer antidepressants or antipsychotics.
Lifestyle and Supportive Interventions
As is the way with many disorders, lifestyle changes can play a role in managing the symptoms. A person with Alzheimer’s will usually benefit from activities such as gentle, physical exercises, which can improve health, mood, and brain health. Dietary changes, like eating a diet high in vitamin C, as well as whole grains and omega-3 fatty acids, have also been found to help with neurological functioning in patients with Alzheimer’s.
Potential Future Treatments
The future of Alzheimer’s research is always shifting, and it is important for carers and family members of those with Alzheimer’s to aim to stay informed about clinical trials. There are therapies that are exploring the role of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, which have long been linked to Alzheimer’s.
Treatments for these are currently exploring the roles of monoclonal antibodies, which can reduce plaques, as well as gene therapies and the role of anti-inflammatories in the treatment of symptom management.
Remember, the future of Alzheimer’s is far from set in stone, and new therapies and research are always taking place to establish the best treatment options.
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