Dementia, of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, affects over 13% of adults over 70 years old, and that number of people suffering from the mental effects of this disorder goes up every year. Dementia affects the brain, resulting in loss of memory, skills, and function in everyday situations. Those who suffer from dementia also generally experience a range of psychological and behavioral symptoms.
Although dementia is not yet curable, psychiatrists like Dr. Sehdev at Aware Behavioral Health provide dementia treatment that can help manage the behavioral and psychological aspects of dementia. We also can work with patients to address mental health conditions that result from or occur alongside dementia.
Our dementia treatment in Dallas is patient-centered and compassionate. We use the latest science and extensive training to manage the symptoms and challenges of dementia, depression, anxiety, and other conditions elderly patients face. Call us at 469-487-7744 to learn more about our dementia treatment
Mental Health Challenges Caused by Dementia
Scientists have not yet discovered a cure for dementia, but we do have ways to manage the symptoms it causes and other mental health conditions that may result from the struggle with dementia. These can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Psychosis
- Insomnia
In addition to memory loss, dementia symptoms are often similar to those of depression with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and apathy. Agitation and irritability are also common. All of these can make dementia a more distressing experience for both the family member diagnosed with dementia and those caring for them.
How We Treat Dementia with Psychiatry
Dr. Sehdev begins all of his treatments for dementia with a personable and empathetic approach. This is a frightening experience for many patients and we prioritize empowering our patients at Aware Behavioral Health with input into their mental wellness plan.
From there, we can use a range of medication assisted therapies to help with symptoms or dementia and related mental health conditions. These include:
- Dementia Medications – While not able to cure Alzheimer’s or dementia, medications like Memantine and various Cholinesterase inhibitors can help reduce or delay symptoms of memory loss.
- Antidepressants – We may prescribe antidepressants to help with the depression and anxiety that often occurs as a result of dementia or as a separate condition in elderly patients.
- Additional Medications – As necessary, we can prescribe other medications to address both physical and mental symptoms that accompany dementia and make it easier to live with the effects of this condition.
Other treatments for Alzheimer’s disease include psychotherapy, or talk therapy. This has shown to be helpful in reducing some symptoms of dementia, particularly the discomfort and anxiety caused by change and conditions like depression. Talk therapy can also increase the quality of life by providing support and strategies that enable patients to continue living at their best.
If you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with dementia, seeking the help of a psychiatrist in Dallas can help manage the condition. Dr. Sehdev and the team at Aware Behavioral Health have extensive experience in working with patients of all ages and backgrounds.
Let us help make the experience easier with a customized treatment plan. Call us at 469-487-7744 or use the contact form below to get in touch so we can discuss your needs and options with psychiatry in Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding area.