How do you test for dementia?
At Chennai Minds you will have a detailed and thorough assessment for dementia starting with a clinical history, physical examination, memory tests, lab tests for blood and an MRI scan.
Does blood test detect dementia?
This is still at the research stage and there are some studies that are looking into a diagnostic test, but it is not widely available currently. However, other blood tests to diagnose thyroid, diabetes and anaemia can be very helpful.
What kind of tests are done for dementia?
There are a variety of tests which are done to conclude for certain that a person has dementia.
- BED SIDE TEST: Mini mental state examination which looks at memory, reasoning, language and counting.
- NEUROLOGICAL EXAMINATION: A simple neurological examination may be done.
- BLOOD TEST: Blood tests are also done for dementia.
- BRAIN SCANS: CT, MRI or PET may be required.
What happens at a dementia assessment?
During a dementia assessment, we will ask you in detail when the symptom started, how it is affecting your daily activities, your sleep, appetite, mood and other parameters. Also questions about your general health to rule out presence of other mental illnesses.
There are some tests in the clinic to assess for various mental abilities including memory both long and short term, whether you are able to be aware of time and place, looking into language and also attention span etc. Commonly used test is known as Mini Mental State Examination.
This may be followed by suggestions for blood tests including thyroid, renal function tests, total blood count, Vit B 12 and Vit D levels, Liver function tests etc. Some scans may be suggested such as MRI. All the information will be used to make a diagnosis of dementia.
Can dementia be seen on MRI?
MRI is Magnetic Resonance Imaging which is a scan which uses magnetic fields to detect same problems at CT but better at identifying issues like brain atrophy, changes due to stroke and reduced blood supply.
What scans are recommended for dementia?
The commonly used scans are CT and MRI. Additionally EEG which is a tracing of the brain may be requested depending on the symptoms they provide.
Can dementia be treated?
Dementia is a progressive condition which cannot be cured. However the progress of dementia can be delayed and other problems associated with dementia such as depression, sleep problems and behaviour changes can be treated so that the journey is comfortable for the person and the carer.
What is the best treatment for dementia?
Medications which are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are best suited to treat dementia. These medications prevent breakdown of the chemical Acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is the chemical which is important in memory and learning. So, medications which prevent breakdown of this chemical acetyl choline is good for dementia.
Do medications work in dementia?
Medications are standard treatment in delaying the progress of dementia and to treat other symptoms such as mood problems, sleep problems and so forth.
How do medications work in dementia?
Medications used in dementia work by boosting the chemical in the brain required for memory and learning. This in turn slows down dementia. Antidepressants are medications used to treat low mood in dementia and sometimes sleep problems too. There are other classes of medications which work by altering neurotransmitters in the brain and thus correct those symptoms.
Can any medications make dementia worse?
As we have seen in earlier questions, when acetyl choline is increased this helps with dementia. However there are some medications including cough syrups which decrease this acetylcholine. This may make dementia worse. So please check with your doctor before taking any medications.
Can medications help slow down dementia?
Medications that are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil and medications that block a chemical glutamate such as memantine can help slow done dementia.
What calming medications are given for dementia?
Depending on the reasons for agitation, various medications are used in dementia to calm down the individual. This includes antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers. Sometimes short term use of benzodiazepines may also be required.
Which anxiety medications are given for dementia?
Anxiety can be present along with dementia or as one of the symptoms. Depending on your general health condition, medications such as SSRI or buspirone can be given to reduce anxiety if anxiety is severe and cannot be managed without medications. All medications should be supervised by a doctor.
What are the 3 most commonly prescribed medications for dementia?
3 commonly used type of medications for dementia include Donepezil, Memantine or a combination of both.
How can dementia patients improve their memory?
Listen to the doctor’s advice and take regular medications. Exercise and eat healthy. Keep socialising and going outdoors as much as possible. Try to work through crosswords, jigsaw puzzles and try to challenge your brain maximally by doing mental calculations in shops, recalling photo pictures and doing the time tables in reverse order etc. These steps may help improve memory to some extent.
Can medications help with sleep problems of dementia?
Some types of dementia such as Lewy Body Dementia presents with more sleep problems than other types. Melatonin and clonazepam is studied to be effective in REM sleep disturbances. Meanwhile good sleep hygiene and avoiding sleeping during the day time is important apart from setting a routine for sleep.
What are good activities for dementia?
Painting, having a scrap book of memories, dancing, singing can all be good activities for people with dementia.
What are the main interventions for dementia?
Interventions for dementia include medications and other types of therapies such as art and music therapy. Physical exercise, routine and activities are also important in helping people with dementia.
What are the psychological treatments/ talk therapy for dementia?
Talk therapies such as counselling and cognitive behaviour therapy may be useful in early stages of dementia and also may help family members come to term with dementia.
How can behaviour problems of dementia be treated?
Behaviour problems can be controlled mainly by adjusting the environment, keeping a routine for the person with dementia, talking to them regularly etc. Medications can sometimes be used for the behaviour problems associated with dementia.
Do we require a nurse to look after a patient with dementia?
A nurse is not always required to care for someone with dementia. Specialist nurses may be needed in later stages.
How can family members care for someone with dementia?
Family should first learn about what is dementia and how this can be treated for a comfortable journey. They should get support as it can be stressful to care for someone with dementia. They should follow the instructions of the doctor and try to develop patience when dealing with difficult behaviours in dementia.
How can people with dementia improve their quality of life?
Doing activities which are meaningful can improve the quality of life of someone with dementia. This includes cleaning the house, playing with pets, gardening and talking to people.
How can a psychiatrist help a patient feel valued?
Helping people and their carers understand the nature of dementia, providing information and protecting the dignity of the person with dementia can help a person feel valued.
