Psychologist Questions Psychologist

What type of therapy is best for dementia?

My grandmother was diagnosed with dementia. What type of therapy is best for dementia?

5 Answers

Unfortunately, there is no talk therapy that can help with dementia. Skill building can help in the beginning with memory tricks and other mechanisms to work around symptoms.
Thank you for your question. The best therapy for dementia depends on what stage your grandmother is in. Cognition-enhancing medications, Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, and Rehabilitation or Occupational Therapies may help to manage symptoms. I would recommend consulting with her doctor.
Dementia can be of different types due to various reasons . Some dementias are reversible like the ones due to B12 def, depression, Thyroid disorders, TIAs etc. Irreversible dementias —most commonly Alzheimers, vascular dementias like stroke, other degenerative neurological diseases.
When person has dementia—they have to undergo work up/tests to arrive at the cause of dementia. Depending on the cause there are treatments.
Thank you
After a dementia diagnosis, your loved one may be considering medications and various treatment options. Finding a good doctor is one key to managing dementia. Finding the best therapy for your unique needs is another. Every person is different, and there are a wide variety of options to explore.

1) Individual psychotherapy can be a proactive way to process emotions and concerns that will inevitably arise after a dementia diagnosis. Look for a therapist who has experience working with clients that have cognitive loss from dementia.

2) Connecting in a group environment might be helpful, try a support group for persons with dementia and groups for family caregivers. The Alzheimer's Association is a great resource to find local support groups that meet either virtually or in person.

3) Reminiscence therapy can be done individually or in a group. For this method, the person living with dementia looks back on their life to find meaning, which is particularly helpful when making new memories might be difficult. It can be made even more therapeutic by reframing negative memories to be more positive.

4) A practical tool for managing all stages of dementia is occupational therapy. This intervention can help a person continue to perform meaningful tasks and feel more independent while accurately gauging any safety issues.

I suggest you speak to her PCP for referrals.
See this link:
https://www.agespace.org/dementia/treatments-used-dementia#:~:text=Evidence%20suggests%20that%20cognitive%20stimulation,with%20mild%20or%20moderate%20dementia.