Other possible treatments for dementia

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Reality orientation is thought to help in some cases. This involves giving regular information to people with dementia about times, places, or people to keep them 'orientated'. It may range from simple things such as having a board in a prominent place giving details of the day, date, season etc, to staff in a residential home 're-orienting' a person with dementia at each contact.

Cognitive stimulation may help. This means 'stimulating the brain', for example, by recreational activities, problem-solving activities, and talking to the affected person. In addition, recreational activities enhance quality of life and well-being. If possible, including some regular physical activity such as walking, dancing, etc, may help to slow down the decline in mobility that is common in people with dementia.

Reminiscence therapy may help in some cases. This involves encouraging people to talk about the past so that past experiences are brought into their current thoughts. It relies on long-term memory which is often quite good in people with mild-to-moderate dementia.

Behaviour management is sometimes tried to reduce depression in people who have depression in addition to dementia.

Regular physical activity, if possible, such as walking, dancing, etc, may help to slow down the decline in mobility that is common in people with dementia.

Further advice information and help

Alzheimer's Society Gordon House, 10 Greencoat Place, London SW1P 1PH Tel (Helpline): 0845 300 0336 Web: www.alzheimers.org.uk Provides information on other types of dementia and not just on Alzheimer's disease.
Carers UK 20-25 Glasshouse Yard, London, EC1A 4JS Tel: 0808 808 7777 Web: www.carersuk.org Carers UK (formerly the Carers National Association) aims to help anyone who is caring for a sick, disabled, elderly, or frail friend or relative at home.