Tag: non-drug dementia therapies

Dementia is not a single condition but rather a broad term that encompasses a range of neurodegenerative disorders affecting memory, reasoning, and daily function. Among the most common types are Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal disorders. Each type presents its own unique challenges, but what unites them is the gradual decline in cognitive function, which interferes with the ability to live independently and communicate effectively. This decline not only affects memory but also disrupts focus, judgment, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be deeply rewarding, but it often comes with unique and complex challenges. Among the most distressing behaviors for caregivers is agitation, which may manifest as restlessness, aggression, irritability, or repetitive actions such as pacing. These behaviors can escalate, particularly in the late afternoon or evening, a phenomenon known as "sundowning." Learning how to calm an agitated dementia patient requires not only patience and compassion but also an understanding of the underlying causes of agitation in dementia. Through evidence-based approaches and insights from healthcare professionals, caregivers can adopt effective techniques to create a more peaceful, supportive environment.