Alzheimer's disease cannot be cured, although drugs like memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors can help control symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Coping strategies for patientsStory continues below Advertisement Remove AdMedication and treatment: Alzheimer's disease cannot be cured, although drugs like memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors can help control symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Mental and physical activity: Dr Gupta suggests that physical and mental exercise can help prevent cognitive deterioration and enhance general wellbeing.
Respite care: Taking care of someone who has Alzheimer's disease can be emotionally and physically taxing.
Creating a safe environmentHome modifications: Changing the home environment can help people with Alzheimer's disease feel more independent and safer.
Alzheimer's disease cannot be cured, although drugs like memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors can help control symptoms and enhance quality of life. (Image: Canva)
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological illness that mostly impacts behaviour, thought processes, and memory. It is the most prevalent cause of dementia in older persons and causes cognitive function and daily activity performance to steadily diminish. Alzheimer's patients, their families, and caregivers sometimes find it difficult to cope with the disease.
Coping strategies for patients
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Medication and treatment: Alzheimer's disease cannot be cured, although drugs like memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors can help control symptoms and enhance quality of life. It is crucial to have regular meetings with Dr to track the disease's course and modify treatment as necessary, says Dr Vipul Gupta, senior neurointervention surgeon.
Mental and physical activity: Dr Gupta suggests that physical and mental exercise can help prevent cognitive deterioration and enhance general wellbeing. Brain stimulation and physical well-being can be achieved through engaging in activities like puzzles, reading, strolling, and light exercise.
Routine and structure: Creating a regular schedule lowers anxiety and gives a person a sense of stability. Simple, organized activities and a regular routine might make daily living easier for those suffering from Alzheimer's.
Support for caregivers
Education and training: It is important for caregivers to become knowledgeable about Alzheimer's disease, its course, and practical caregiving techniques, emphasizes Dr Gupta. Workshops and training courses can provide important knowledge and skills for handling the difficulties of caregiving.
Respite care: Taking care of someone who has Alzheimer's disease can be emotionally and physically taxing. Services for respite care provide caregivers with short-term relief so they can relax and refuel. By making use of these resources, caregiver burnout can be avoided, and patient care quality can be maintained.
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Support groups and counselling: Caregivers can benefit from emotional support, useful guidance, and a feeling of community by joining support groups, says Dr Gupta. Counselling can also assist caregivers in managing the stress and emotional strain that comes with providing care.
Creating a safe environment
Home modifications: Changing the home environment can help people with Alzheimer's disease feel more independent and safer. Handrail installation, tripping hazard removal, and sign or label use can improve home navigation and lower accident risk.
Technology and assistive devices: Medical alarm systems and GPS tracking devices are two examples of technology that can be used to keep an eye on the safety of Alzheimer's patients. Memory aids and simpler phones are examples of assistive technology that can help with everyday living and communication.
A comprehensive strategy that includes medical management, physical and mental exercise, routine establishment, and support for both patients and caregivers is needed to cope with Alzheimer's disease. For caregivers to continue their work, they need emotional support, education, and respite care.
