Treatment

The principal goal of treatment is to slow AD progression, provide a safe environment,
maintain function as long as possible, and provide emotional
support for the patient and family through social services and support
groups. However, the treatment of dementia varies according to the stage of
the disease and is focused on management of symptoms because no cure exists.
It is of utmost importance to educate the patient and family about AD,
its course, ramifications, and treatment options. Treatment includes both
patient and caregivers. In early stages of AD, patients and their families may
need counseling to deal with a sense of loss; be made aware of support
groups, respite care, and other social services that are available to them; and
be introduced to legal considerations in making decisions about future care
needs such as medical and financial powers of attorney and a living will. As
more supervision is required, caregivers need to be aware of physical dangers
that can result from memory loss, such as fires from unattended stoves
or burning cigarettes, malnutrition from “forgetting” to eat and difficulty
swallowing, increased risk for falls related to confusion, disorientation, and
declining motor function as well as issues about driving related to poor
motor and cognitive function. Caregivers should also be aware of the patient’s
finances, to assist in paying and recording bills and planning for future
care needs. During late-stage AD, the family may need assistance in preparing
for the patient’s death. Hospice care should be discussed, as it
provides for physical care and comfort for the patient and emotional support
for the family.