BERLIN (dpa) – Although most dementia drugs are ineffectual, a few are somewhat helpful, according to neurologists and psychiatrists who gathered recently in Berlin.
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, for example, could boost patients’ ability to carry out their daily activities, the experts said during a presentation of revised guidelines on treatment of dementia.
They said there was also hope that treatment could slow or even prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease – the most common cause of dementia – as well as other forms of cognitive function decline.
“Evidence is growing that Alzheimer’s dementia isn’t just a matter of fate,” remarked Dr Frank Jessen, director of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Cologne University Hospital. “There are probably ways to reduce the risk of developing the disorder. A rule of thumb is: What helps the heart also helps the brain.”
Overweight children taking part in a programme promoting physical activity. Experts said high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and being overweight increase the chances of developing dementia. EPA
High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and being overweight increase the chances of developing dementia, the experts said. Exercise and an active social life can help slow the development of symptoms, which may include memory loss, difficulty planning and organising, disorientation and personality changes.
While there is no “anti-dementia diet” as such, they said, there is evidence that eating fish is beneficial, as is the so-called “Mediterranean” diet, characterised by plenty of fruit, vegetables, nuts, grains, healthy fats like olive oil, and limited red meat and salt.
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