Maintaining Function
Throughout all stages of dementia, there are actions that can help preserve functional abilities, taking into consideration the condition and the developmental stage of the disease, with particular emphasis on the early onset phase.
In the mild stage of dementia, there is greater chance that, with close attention, seeking help from health professionals and mutual support of family members and caregivers, will enable promote the quality of life of the person with dementia and their family members.
Preservation of functionality of people with mild dementia
In the early stages of dementia, functionality is still relatively maintained; therefore, we must dedicate our efforts to encouraging the patient to function as independently as possible and to continue to maintain their life routine, including family life, social life, and occasionally, work.
At the same time, it is important to monitor and assess the regular activities of individuals with dementia to proactively prevent potential hazards. For example, if they struggle to select weather-appropriate clothing, one approach is to prepare the clothing in advance, while still allowing them to dress independently. Providing encouragement, assistance, and positive feedback throughout the process can be beneficial.
Another example is preserving their ability to grocery shop and prepare meals, while ensuring their safety by accompanying them.
Medical treatment for mild dementia patients
It is important to note that medical treatment for mild dementia, including drug therapy for Alzheimer's disease, are included in the basic health basket services, provided by the HMOs, in accordance with the National Health Act.
In the early stages of dementia, it is advisable to seek consultation with your family doctor, who can provide appropriate referrals to specialists in geriatrics, neurology, or psychology. Collectively, through collaborative treatment, these specialists will customize therapy based on the specific type of dementia and the stage of the disease.
For patients with Alzheimer's disease in the mild to moderate stages, these specialists may propose drug therapy with the objective of stabilizing or slowing down the decline in cognitive function, daily activity functioning, and behavioral functioning of the patient. This drug therapy may have an impact both on the patient’s and their family’s quality of life, and on the postponement of nursing hospitalization.
Physical activity for people with mild dementia
Physical activity can help improve the physical function of people with dementia. Even in the early stages of the disease, it is advisable to consult with an authorized physiotherapist (referral from the family doctor is also an option) for personalized guidance and adjustment of physical activity.
Together with the healthcare specialists, it is possible to motivate the patient to participate in their preferred form of physical activity. It is recommended to include a combination of moderate-intensity aerobic activities like walking or swimming, along with muscle-strengthening and balance-promoting exercises, in order to minimize the risk of falls.
Even if the patient with dementia has not engaged in physical activity in the past, it is never too late to start. In the absence of physical limitations, individuals can consider joining community-based physical activity groups or participating through their healthcare provider's HMO.
Further information on physical activity for people with dementia
Lifestyle and nutrition for people with mild dementia
People with mild dementia can contribute to preserving their cognitive functions if they maintain a healthy lifestyle, including adherence to healthy nutrition, physical activity, refraining from smoking or excessive intake of alcohol (smoking and alcohol are among the risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia).
It is currently well known that the Mediterranean diet, based on olive oil, which includes mainly vegetables, fruits, legumes, and grains, along with fish, dairy products, chicken, reduced meat intake and refraining from ultra-processed foods, may help maintain cognitive functions.
Various studies that have been conducted on this topic demonstrate that a regular intake of vegetables and fruits, fish, and nuts helps reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and delays cognitive decline.
It is advisable to ask your family doctor for a referral to a dietitian specializing in older age, to customize your required diet.