Dementia is a concern for many of us as we age.  Perhaps you or a loved one have been recently diagnosed with a type of dementia? It is important to seek treatment early on, get a proper diagnosis, and coordinate a treatment plan between your health care professionals. Early psychotherapy interventions have shown to be beneficial in addressing symptoms of dementia and helping to prepare the client and family for the changes to come.  Below is some information about dementia, its effects, and treatment options.

• Dementia is not a normal part of aging
  
• Dementia is not a single disease, but a syndrome
  
• The most common form of dementia is of the Alzheimer’s type
• Dementia can occur at any age, although it is more common in the elderly
• Dementia is irreversible
  
• Dementia affects an individual’s physical, psychological and emotional well-being

• Memory (retention and recall abilities)
• Communication 
• Judgment
• Behavior
• Attention
• Problem-solving abilities
• Ability to learn new things
• Language and speech
• Mood

When we think of dementia, we typically think of the cognitive changes that result, but dementia also affects a person psychologically and behaviorally.

• Loss of patterns of thoughts, feelings and activities
• Disinhibition and impulsivity
• Depression and/or anxiety
• Agitation
• Balance problems
• Tremors
• Trouble eating or swallowing
• Delusions or hallucinations
• Memory distortions
• Wandering or restlessness
• Sundowning

While there is no definitive treatment for dementia, current treatment methods focus on: pharmacology, care giving, and psychosocial. In my practice, I believe in a holistic approach – concentrating treatment on the whole person, within their environment. I prefer to work with dementia clients within their own homes (or the facilities in which they reside), as it not only diminishes anxiety for the client, but also provides me with a better picture of their living situation, support networks, safety, and state of mind.  

Dementia not only changes the lives of those afflicted with it, but for their families, friends, and caregivers.  While the focus of my work is primarily with my client, my approach also includes working with those individuals whose lives are touched by dementia.

If you’d like to find out more or wish to set up an  appointment, please contact me at: 510-263-8476 for a free 20 minute consultation.