Alzheimer’s is taking America by storm. 5.8 million Americans live with the disease, which is roughly 3% of the country. By 2060, that number is expected to skyrocket to 14 million people.
You should expect to have a loved one with Alzheimer’s at some point in your life. You need to prepare for that well in advance so they can get the best treatment options possible.
How is Alzheimer’s treated? What medications and therapies can a person take for it? When should someone move to a senior living facility?
Answer these questions and you can make your loved one’s life comfortable for years. Here is your quick guide.
Prescriptions
Many cases of Alzheimer’s disease can be treated through prescriptions. Many people take cholinesterase inhibitors, which prevent brain chemicals that help with memory from breaking down.
Aducanumab is a disease-modifying drug. It helps remove plaques in the brain, promoting overall brain function.
Someone with severe Alzheimer’s symptoms can take memantine. It decreases symptoms and allows someone to perform some actions on their own. Many people take it so they can use the bathroom without needing help.
Some people with Alzheimer’s have other diseases that they take medications for. They can continue to take these pills, but they should be aware of the side effects. People with Alzheimer’s should not take sleep aids because they can cause confusion.
Behavioral Management
As Alzheimer’s stages progress, a person’s behavior can change dramatically. They may become aggressive or agitated at small things. They may start to rummage through drawers and wander from the house.
Some people respond well to therapy. They can work with a therapist on channeling their emotions into positive tasks. They can go for walks or exercise in a gym so they are less inclined to wander outside.
Many people with late-stage Alzheimer’s struggle to communicate. You should find ways to help your loved one communicate through drawings and pointing at photographs. When you give instructions, you should use simplistic language and repeat what you say.
Dementia Care
Someone who cannot take care of themselves should go to a treatment center. Any elder center would provide good care, but it’s best to bring your loved one to an Alzheimer’s center. They can receive dementia care for seniors, which would help them with their unique condition.
Dementia specialists can help your loved one perform basic tasks. They can walk with your loved one to the bathroom or help them brush their teeth. They can cook nutritious meals for them and arrange social interactions so their body and mind are healthy.
So How Is Alzheimer’s Treated?
Many people have questions about Alzheimer’s. How is Alzheimer’s treated? That depends on the case.
The majority of people take medications to promote brain function and stave off symptoms. They also need to avoid medications that can fog the brain, such as sedatives.
Psychological and behavioral therapy can prevent irritability and aggressive behavior. If someone needs more intensive help, they can go to a treatment center for support. They can get meals and assistance with tasks like brushing their teeth.
Alzheimer’s will only get trickier with time. Read more guides to Alzheimer’s by following our coverage.
