Treatments

Dementia Treatments

While there is currently no cure for dementia, early detection and treatment has proven to help patients live more independent and satisfying lives. Northwestern Medicine can help you and your loved ones cope with the symptoms of dementia through medication and lifestyle changes.

Medication is used to treat the following symptoms:

• Depression
• Behavioral disturbances, such as agitation and aggression
• Sleeplessness

Other medications are currently being used to increase the presence of certain important chemicals in the brain and regulate glutamate, which is involved in learning and memory.

Lifestyle changes may also be helpful in coping with a diagnosis of dementia, such as:

• Activity and exercise are good for the body and mind and may even help slow the progression of the disease. Simple, repetitive activities are usually good choices.
• Regular physician visits help keep track of symptoms and overall health.
• The sleep-wake cycle can be mixed up in patients with dementia. Your physician can discuss how to deal with these cycle changes.
• Maintain your social activities.