Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia across the world, and as the ageing population increases, so does this terrible disease. The cruelly progressive nature of the illness means that both the person suffering, and the family and friends of the person can become distressed and feel cheated of their time with the person.
Although scientists and researchers are working hard to find a way to cure the illness, as yet there is no cure. The best thing that can happen for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is that they eventually move into a home such as this care home Bridgwater based Notaro, where specialised staff can help them and keep them safe as the illness progresses.
Although there is no cure as the moment, there are some ways that doctors can help to treat some of the symptoms of the illness. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are often used in treatment of Alzheimer’s to raise levels of the brain chemicals that help the nerves to pass messages to each other. They are usually prescribed in the early – mid stages of the disease.
Anti-Depressants of various types may also be prescribed as the disease progresses as they help with the challenging behaviours and feelings that the illness can bring, such as anxiety, aggression and hallucinations.
There are also other, non-drug related therapies which can be used side by side with medication, such as cognitive rehabilitation, and working on life stories, which is enjoyable for the patient to relive old memories.
