Treatment of dementia

There is no cure for dementia and damage that has occurred to the brain cannot be reversed.

For certain types of dementia, medications can help slow the progression of the symptoms. However, for most people treatment will largely concentrate on supporting the person and maintaining independence for as long as possible.

People with dementia experience a gradual decline in abilities. In the early stages most people manage to live at home. Maintaining a familiar and safe environment is important for people living with dementia. Assistive devices such as medication reminders can often help people cope with early memory loss.

As dementia progresses family will play a key role in the daily lives of people living with dementia. They may have to help with activities of daily living such as showering, preparing meals and toileting.

Progression of the condition varies and can be influenced by a person's overall health and other medical conditions. No two people experience dementia in the same way.

During the middle stages of dementia the disease can cause changes in a person's personality and behaviour. Carers and people living with dementia often find this distressing. At this stage people with dementia will need more and more support from those around them.

Learning how dementia affects the brain will help you understand why a person is behaving in a certain way. Problems during the middle stages of dementia may include wandering, aggression and incontinence.

In some cases medication may be prescribed to help manage dementia symptoms. Although carers can’t do much to change the course of dementia, there are many behavioural techniques carers can use to increase the quality of life for a person living with dementia.

People at the end stage of dementia require 24 hour nursing care and are generally cared for in a nursing home.

Seeking out professional advice and talking to other carers can also help make your job easier. There are many aged care services that help people living with dementia remain at home.

• For support caring for someone with dementia or for more information visit Alzheimer's Australia or call The National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
   
• A Commonwealth Carelink Centre can give you information about aged care services in your area on 1800 052 222.

Can dementia be prevented?

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