The most common psychiatric symptoms of dementia are cognitive decline, mood swings, and behavioral abnormalities. Treatment primarily involves medication, psychological support, and lifestyle modifications. Cognitive decline manifests as memory loss, disorientation, and impaired language skills; mood swings include anxiety, depression, and irritability; and behavioral abnormalities may include aggression, hallucinations, or delusions.
1. Cognitive decline is a core symptom of dementia, related to degenerative changes in brain neurons. Cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil, galantamine, and rivastigmine can slow cognitive deterioration. Cognitive training and memory games help maintain brain activity. Family members should provide structured daily activities to help patients maintain a regular lifestyle.
2. Mood swings are common in dementia patients, possibly due to an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood. Antidepressants such as sertraline, fluoxetine, and paroxetine can improve mood symptoms. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, can help alleviate anxiety and depression. Family members should be patient, avoid conflict with the patient, and create a calm environment.
3. Behavioral abnormalities are a common challenge for dementia patients and may be related to impaired function of the frontal lobe of the brain. Antipsychotic medications such as risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine can control aggressive and hallucinatory symptoms. Environmental modifications, such as reducing noise and stimuli, can help reduce the incidence of behavioral abnormalities. Family members should learn coping skills, avoid direct confrontation, and use methods such as distraction.
The treatment of dementia patients' mental symptoms requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing medication, psychological support, and lifestyle modifications. Early diagnosis and intervention can slow disease progression and improve patients' quality of life. Family members should actively participate in the treatment process, working closely with the medical team to provide all-round support. Regular follow-ups and assessments of treatment effectiveness are crucial, allowing for timely adjustments to the treatment plan to ensure the patient achieves the best possible outcome.