Expert Dementia Treatment in Central California

The progressive loss of cognitive abilities, such as thinking and memory, is known as dementia. Several disorders can lead to this type of brain dysfunction, including Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. While all of these conditions are incurable, there are medical treatments and therapies that can improve symptoms and slow their progression. 

If a loved one is experiencing memory loss, doctors at Dignity Health Central California offer innovative care with humankindness. To learn more about dementia treatment in Central California, use our search tool and Find a Doctor online.

 

Types of Treatment for Dementia

Therapies and other types of care for dementia include medications aimed at reducing symptoms, supportive therapy, and support from caregivers and loved ones.

Medications for Dementia

Your doctor may recommend certain medications to help slow the progression of memory loss or to treat conditions related to dementia, such as mood changes and behavioral issues. These can include: 

  • Insomnia medications to help with sleeping problems
  • Memantine to stabilize reasoning, memory, and language skills
  • Cholinesterase inhibitors to delay cognitive decline and loss of memory
  • Anti-anxiety, antidepressants, and antipsychotic medications to treat behavior and mental health changes
  • Levodopa to treat tremors and other movement problems

Support Therapies

In some cases, various types of supportive care can be very helpful for dementia. This includes: 

  • Physical therapy to improve balance and muscle tone
  • Speech therapy to help with speaking and communication
  • Occupational therapy to help with performing daily activities and mobility
  • Support groups for those with dementia and their loved ones
  • Individual or group psychotherapy

Support from Caregivers

Your family may be able to provide necessary support for a loved one with dementia. If this isn’t possible, you can count on quality support from a team of trained caregivers at Dignity Health Central California. This team of caregivers often includes:

  • Nurse or aid for home health care
  • Private duty caregiver for help at home
  • Case manager
  • Social worker

For more advanced stages of dementia, the services of an inpatient dementia care or assisted living facility may be needed for the best outcome. For more information about these treatment options, speak with a provider at a Dignity Health Central California location near you.

 

Treatment for Dementia at Dignity Health Central California

Dementia treatment depends on how severe the disease is, and more specifically, what type of dementia it is. Those with mild symptoms can often maintain their independence for many years before needing medication and supportive care. Talk with a provider at Dignity Health Central California to learn more about caring for dementia.

Dignity Health Central California is dedicated to treating and preventing dementia in Bakersfield, Merced, San Andreas, and Stockton, CA.