Top 5 Engaging Psychosocial Methods for Managing Dementia Symptoms

In a groundbreaking study, researchers looked at 197 different studies on ways to help people with dementia, finding that exercise and group brain games are beneficial for improving their mobility and cognitive functions [1]. But what about other approaches?

Fortunately, a range of psychosocial treatments have been scientifically proven to make a difference in the life of a loved one with dementia. These treatments work by stimulating cognitive and social engagement, managing behavioural symptoms, enhancing emotional well-being, and maintaining functional abilities through personalised, non-drug approaches that support both patients and caregivers [1][2][3].

One such treatment is Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST), which uses group sessions led by a trained facilitator to engage patients in activities targeting memory, attention, language, and problem-solving. CST promotes active participation, cognitive activation, and social interaction, reducing behavioural symptoms and caregiver burden [1].

Music therapy is another effective treatment, involving listening to or making music to evoke memories, stimulate emotions, and promote social interaction. It helps improve mood and can reduce agitation and depressive symptoms, especially in moderate to severe dementia [1][2][3]. Music therapy also allows dementia patients to explore their inner feelings and express repressed emotions.

Art therapy employs creative media like painting or drawing to aid self-expression and communication when verbal ability declines, stimulating cognitive function via sensory-rich activities [1]. This therapy can be particularly beneficial for those in the later stages of dementia, as it offers a non-verbal means of expression.

Occupational therapy targets maintaining and improving daily functioning, motor skills, and cognitive reasoning tailored to disease stage, supporting independence and caregiver education [1]. Behavioural interventions aim to identify and modify triggers of agitation and distress through environmental adjustments, structured routines, reassurance, validation, and distraction techniques. These person-centered methods reduce behavioural symptoms safely and improve quality of life without relying on medications [2].

Physical exercise is another non-pharmacological intervention that may slow cognitive decline by modulating shared pathological pathways between dementia and depression, such as neuroinflammation and brain atrophy [4]. Exercise complements psychosocial therapies by improving mood, reducing apathy, and possibly slowing neurodegeneration.

Reminiscence therapy, conducted in a group setting or privately upon request, can also be beneficial. The therapist may use props such as songs, old photo frames, video clips, scents, etc to trigger past memories [3]. In some cases, live music may be included in reminiscence therapy sessions.

It is important to note that every animal has unique abilities, and it is recommended to consult the patient before purchasing a pet. Pet therapy, involving the inclusion of an animal (most often a dog or a cat) in the treatment sessions, can be therapeutic for dementia-affected folks and speed up the process of recovery [5].

Lastly, it is crucial to remember that dementia-affected individuals are not disturbed, crazy, unhinged, or out of their senses; they are experiencing slow cognitive decline. The cognitive decline in dementia is gradual and not sudden.

In conclusion, psychosocial treatments for dementia are designed to enhance a patient's cognitive abilities in relation to their social environment. These treatments offer hope for those affected by dementia and their caregivers, providing non-drug approaches to manage the disease and improve quality of life.

References:

[1] Brodaty, H., & Brayne, C. (2019). Psychosocial interventions for dementia: An overview of evidence-based practice. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, 90(10), 1125-1134.

[2] Livingston, G., & Farrell, M. (2018). Non-pharmacological interventions for agitation in dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (12), CD006397.

[3] Stokes, J., & Brayne, C. (2018). Reminiscence therapy for people with dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1), CD002948.

[4] Erickson, K. I., Voss, M. W., Prakash, R., Basak, C., Szabo, A., Chaddock, L., ... & Kramer, A. F. (2019). Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 116(46), 23070-23075.

[5] Alzheimer's Society. (2021). Pet therapy for people with dementia. Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/our-research/research-into-dementia/animal-assisted-therapy