More than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide. There’s no cure yet, but treatment can slow symptoms, reduce risks, and make daily life easier. This page collects clear, practical advice on medications, home strategies, and support for caregivers.
Doctors often prescribe cholinesterase inhibitors—donepezil, rivastigmine, or galantamine—for mild to moderate dementia. These drugs can help memory and thinking for months in some people. For moderate to severe stages, memantine may be added; it can help with daily function and reduce agitation for some patients.
Expect gradual change: medicines usually give small to moderate benefits, not a dramatic reversal. Watch for side effects like nausea, sleep problems, or dizziness, and tell the prescriber if they happen. Avoid mixing with drugs that have strong anticholinergic effects (these can worsen thinking) and be cautious with sedatives or some pain meds.
Small changes in the home often help more than extra medications. Keep a consistent daily routine for meals, sleep, and activities. Cut clutter and use clear labels on cupboards and drawers to reduce confusion. Use night lights and handrails to prevent falls. A well-lit, calm space helps reduce agitation and wandering.
Behavior changes often have triggers. Ask: is the person hungry, tired, in pain, or too hot? Fixing those basics often stops problems fast. When behavior is hard to manage, try a short walk, a favorite song, or a simple activity like folding towels instead of arguing.
Exercise and social contact matter. Regular walking, chair exercises, or group activities help mood, sleep, and thinking. Hearing and vision checks make a big difference—when people can hear and see better, they engage more and feel less frustrated.
Nutrition and sleep help too. Keep meals simple and regular. Limit alcohol and avoid heavy sedatives. Good sleep routines—same bedtime, less screen time before bed—improve daytime thinking and behavior.
Plan ahead: talk about legal and care wishes early, and set up medication lists and emergency contacts. Keep a single, updated list of current medicines to share with every clinician.
Caregivers need support. Join a local support group, take short breaks, and accept help for errands or respite care. Burnout lowers the quality of care more than any single medical decision.
Research keeps moving. Ask your doctor about clinical trials or new therapies if you’re interested. Even small improvements can add up to better days.
For practical articles on specific meds, online pharmacy safety, and caregiver tips, browse our guides—each one focuses on clear steps you can take right now to keep someone with dementia safer and more comfortable.
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