Dementia is not a single disease but is a collective term representing a range of other diseases. Its primary symptoms include memory, speech, and reasoning impairment. Although dementia is associated with memory loss, there are other causes of cognitive decline. Moreover, having memory loss alone is not a sign of dementia.
While the risk of dementia increases with age, it is not an age-related disease, meaning not everyone will get it. Some people are more predisposed than others due to family history, depression, cardiovascular diseases, alcohol abuse, poor diet, and lifestyle.
Currently, there is no known cure for degenerative dementia. This is because brain cell death is irreversible, however, you can manage the symptoms and slow its progression.
We offer a range of dementia treatment in Germantown MD, to help you and your family cope with the disease. Managing the symptoms and the outcome is the only sure way of slowing the progression of the disease, and here are a few tips to consider.
Everyone responds differently to the shock of the diagnosis. The response is based on personality, previous experience, social and emotional support, and their understanding of the disease.
Some people may be in denial and may not acknowledge that they have dementia, thereby making it hard for caregivers to offer optimal treatment. Others may accept and be aware of the changes happening to their memory and brain function.
If your loved one is denial, you can enroll them in counseling sessions. Alternatively, you can contact our primary physician in Germantown MD for a discussion on how well to help them. Coming to terms with the changes happening to their brain function is the first step to managing dementia.
As aforesaid, there is no specific treatment for dementia, but certain medications can help with the symptoms. Most of the medications used for dementia are designed for Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia.
Some of the medications used are Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors that are designed to block enzyme action on acetylcholine—a substance that supports the communication between the brain nerve cells.
The doctor can also prescribe antidepressants to improve mood and irritability.
Therapy is designed to jog up the memory and thinking skills. Remember though, don’t engage in activities that make them feel overwhelmed and irritable. Some of the therapies you can try include:
At Germantown Primary Healthcare, we offer various classes and programs such as chronic care management, care coordination, group meetings, caregiver classes, and memory care facilities. All these services are tailored to support families coping with dementia.
Exercises can help slow down the symptoms of dementia and reduces anxiety. Some of the exercises include walking, dancing, and gardening. However, ensure the workouts and activities are safe for them to handle.
Other tips include getting enough sleep, having proper nutrition, and engaging in brain activities.
If you are looking for dementia treatment in Germantown, MD, contact us for an appointment. We offer various support and treatment to help manage dementia. Plus, you don’t have to worry about payment as our doctor accepts Medicaid for dementia support.
