Dementia Therapists in Bowmanville, ON
![Photo of Lisa Trepanier, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ceef1e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowmanville, ON L1C
Waitlist for new clients
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide various forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I taught at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide various forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I taught at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
![Photo of Crystal Beare, RSW, MSW, HBSW, SSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b066d137-9946-448a-8584-732e374543a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Beare
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, HBSW, SSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowmanville, ON L1C
My focus from jump is prioritizing your comfort, welcoming you to relax and we may even share a laugh or two. I fully believe that you hold all the power. I have the privilege of hearing your story and to provide validation, emotional support, guidance and strategies for individual goals. Whether it's stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, addiction, grief, trauma or others stresses - I am here for you to vent, strategize, share, cry and sometimes laugh! Let's share some coffee and dig into what's going on with you today.
My focus from jump is prioritizing your comfort, welcoming you to relax and we may even share a laugh or two. I fully believe that you hold all the power. I have the privilege of hearing your story and to provide validation, emotional support, guidance and strategies for individual goals. Whether it's stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, addiction, grief, trauma or others stresses - I am here for you to vent, strategize, share, cry and sometimes laugh! Let's share some coffee and dig into what's going on with you today.
![Photo of Holly Godward - Nature’s Path Healing Center-Neurofeedback , RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb2faa7a-73ce-47dd-95b9-66a65e03fd99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nature’s Path Healing Center-Neurofeedback
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowmanville, ON L1C
Hello! My name is Holly, I've been a registered nurse for 23 years and I run a neurofeedback center called Nature’s Path healing center where we believe in holistic healing to end suffering. In today’s fast paced and unpredictable world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and “stuck” in patterns of thinking and behaving that hinder healthy mindsets. It is not unexpected that people are feeling more mentally and physically burnt out and unsure how to move forward to feel more balanced. Neurofeedback supports the brain in developing greater resiliency and flexibility and in general, the mind and body’s capacity for healing.
Hello! My name is Holly, I've been a registered nurse for 23 years and I run a neurofeedback center called Nature’s Path healing center where we believe in holistic healing to end suffering. In today’s fast paced and unpredictable world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and “stuck” in patterns of thinking and behaving that hinder healthy mindsets. It is not unexpected that people are feeling more mentally and physically burnt out and unsure how to move forward to feel more balanced. Neurofeedback supports the brain in developing greater resiliency and flexibility and in general, the mind and body’s capacity for healing.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Anna Donaldson, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1edb64f-0574-410d-8a35-3da22f66e7a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Donaldson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1N (Online Only)
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. You have BIG responsibilities! — With little time and less energy! You may feel pulled in many directions ... as a student, worker, caregiver, provider... You may feel distressed, confused, and empty. You may have lost a sense of connection to who you are and what you want - because of BURNOUT, stress, and overwhelm! I too have felt I was losing control; it can be frightening!
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. You have BIG responsibilities! — With little time and less energy! You may feel pulled in many directions ... as a student, worker, caregiver, provider... You may feel distressed, confused, and empty. You may have lost a sense of connection to who you are and what you want - because of BURNOUT, stress, and overwhelm! I too have felt I was losing control; it can be frightening!
![Photo of Nicole Murray, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/168e934e-8296-4ed4-9a97-fd46a7a531af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't fight to get tested for ADHD. We run ADHD clinics every month, get evaluated and properly diagnosed. Already have ADHD? Join our intensive program, next start date is on June 12, 2024. This next cohort is focused on emotional regulation, because ADHD is more than just not following through, and getting trapped in procrastination. Manage the overstimulation, reduce the rejection sensitivity and anxiety that's so commonly paired with ADHD. We currently have 4 spots remaining.
Don't fight to get tested for ADHD. We run ADHD clinics every month, get evaluated and properly diagnosed. Already have ADHD? Join our intensive program, next start date is on June 12, 2024. This next cohort is focused on emotional regulation, because ADHD is more than just not following through, and getting trapped in procrastination. Manage the overstimulation, reduce the rejection sensitivity and anxiety that's so commonly paired with ADHD. We currently have 4 spots remaining.
![Photo of Ola M. Kuforiji, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df9fefb0-3ed7-4701-9720-bf723d6eb44e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you ever have the thought, ‘how did I get here?’? From navigating your relationships to your career to your sense of self, you might feel disconnected from the life you once dreamed of —like you’ve lost that spark of joy. Therapy offers an opportunity to see your life from a different perspective and to open up new paths forward. I bring my own lived experience and mental health journey to my practice. I know the challenges and insights that come with seeking help and I understand how scary it can feel to be unsure of your next step. Together we can find a direction forward that feels authentic and fulfilling to you.
Do you ever have the thought, ‘how did I get here?’? From navigating your relationships to your career to your sense of self, you might feel disconnected from the life you once dreamed of —like you’ve lost that spark of joy. Therapy offers an opportunity to see your life from a different perspective and to open up new paths forward. I bring my own lived experience and mental health journey to my practice. I know the challenges and insights that come with seeking help and I understand how scary it can feel to be unsure of your next step. Together we can find a direction forward that feels authentic and fulfilling to you.
![Photo of Derek Wright, BSW, MSW, RSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7628d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8478aad9-a6c5-4fec-ba03-348c7771a3f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Oshawa, ON L1H (Online Only)
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
![Photo of Jessica Blair, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96498c65-9434-465b-be2c-a2b2670f9cb4/1/320x400.png)
At one time or another in our lives we hit an obstacle, a mountain, and if we're raised to feel freely it maybe wouldn't be as hard to traverse it, to get through it. I hope to be but a Sherpa on your trek, I know the way but you hold the map. Some days it gets hard and desperate, finding a person to explore with, to navigate life with, helps to grow your "life worth living". It's as true today as ever I've said it, but awareness is key, without awareness and acceptance there can be little lasting change.
At one time or another in our lives we hit an obstacle, a mountain, and if we're raised to feel freely it maybe wouldn't be as hard to traverse it, to get through it. I hope to be but a Sherpa on your trek, I know the way but you hold the map. Some days it gets hard and desperate, finding a person to explore with, to navigate life with, helps to grow your "life worth living". It's as true today as ever I've said it, but awareness is key, without awareness and acceptance there can be little lasting change.
![Photo of Candidar Oreko, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aeff7b50-da36-418d-82a0-6dbbea6cf9bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you going through a transition in your life? Do you want something different for yourself or for your relationships? Are you having racing thoughts, worrying about the future, feeling stuck and don't know where to go? Having the courage to ask for help is the first step. Beginning therapy can be a daunting task but here you are. You have made that first step toward healing and sometimes; that one step is all it takes. My goal as a therapist is to empower adults and seniors with the skills to overcome anger, fear, grief, pain, trauma, anxiety and depression.
Are you going through a transition in your life? Do you want something different for yourself or for your relationships? Are you having racing thoughts, worrying about the future, feeling stuck and don't know where to go? Having the courage to ask for help is the first step. Beginning therapy can be a daunting task but here you are. You have made that first step toward healing and sometimes; that one step is all it takes. My goal as a therapist is to empower adults and seniors with the skills to overcome anger, fear, grief, pain, trauma, anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Martine Guay, RP, DTATI, BBA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0886b36b-4e39-49a6-943c-803553c0d306/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a bilingual Registered Psychotherapist and Professional Art Therapist. I offer both talk and/or art therapy, you get a personalized treatment plan, according to your needs and goals. I utilize art as a means of holistic expression and believe in the potential for positive and continuous growth and change for everyone. I use art/talk therapy to explore/process unpack thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive space. My approach uses Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotions Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills. My thesis on ABI is published with American Art Therapy Association.
I am a bilingual Registered Psychotherapist and Professional Art Therapist. I offer both talk and/or art therapy, you get a personalized treatment plan, according to your needs and goals. I utilize art as a means of holistic expression and believe in the potential for positive and continuous growth and change for everyone. I use art/talk therapy to explore/process unpack thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive space. My approach uses Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotions Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills. My thesis on ABI is published with American Art Therapy Association.
![Photo of Laura Davids - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a745814-c3af-4a08-8414-402646e44cdb/1/320x400.png)
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1L
Accepting NEW patients. Are you or your child feeling: overwhelmed, stuck, or on edge? Experiencing mood swings, flashbacks or urges? Having trouble sleeping, managing emotions or getting through the day? Are you having communication or trust issues in your relationshpi? You are NOT alone & we CAN help. We have helped hundreds of people THRIVE in their life & we look forward to helping you too! Our professional, compassionate & experienced therapists have immediate openings for SAME day & NEXT day appointments for individual, couples & family therapy to children (5+), youth and adults.
Accepting NEW patients. Are you or your child feeling: overwhelmed, stuck, or on edge? Experiencing mood swings, flashbacks or urges? Having trouble sleeping, managing emotions or getting through the day? Are you having communication or trust issues in your relationshpi? You are NOT alone & we CAN help. We have helped hundreds of people THRIVE in their life & we look forward to helping you too! Our professional, compassionate & experienced therapists have immediate openings for SAME day & NEXT day appointments for individual, couples & family therapy to children (5+), youth and adults.
![Photo of Rhonda Thompson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e67b6b9d-6990-46bd-afa8-656b25fe6065/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Thompson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1H (Online Only)
At some point in our lives we all struggle with something that feels super heavy and is weighing us down. Is there hurt, anger, grief, regret or relational discord that you haven’t yet made eye contact with or spoken aloud about? It’s my passion and privilege to help you find your way. You don’t need to do it alone. To explore or unpack life's pain and challenges is a courageous step that can lead to meaningful outcomes of growth, healing and a greater sense of wellness. Since each one of us is unique, I intentionally engage in a collaborative approach which respects your individual strengths, experiences and needs.
At some point in our lives we all struggle with something that feels super heavy and is weighing us down. Is there hurt, anger, grief, regret or relational discord that you haven’t yet made eye contact with or spoken aloud about? It’s my passion and privilege to help you find your way. You don’t need to do it alone. To explore or unpack life's pain and challenges is a courageous step that can lead to meaningful outcomes of growth, healing and a greater sense of wellness. Since each one of us is unique, I intentionally engage in a collaborative approach which respects your individual strengths, experiences and needs.
![Photo of Christine Wildman, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e42f5b5-2814-4376-901d-0ea2b89fe6e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with individuals with diverse backgrounds and challenges for 25 years. Most people I meet with have been struggling to work through issues such as: anxiety, depression, life transitions, losses, and difficulties with coping skills. I appreciate that individuals come to therapy because they are looking to improve their lives and gain new coping skills for the life challenges they are encountering. I am passionate about mental health and I will meet you exactly where you are and work with you to find the path through your challenges.
I have worked with individuals with diverse backgrounds and challenges for 25 years. Most people I meet with have been struggling to work through issues such as: anxiety, depression, life transitions, losses, and difficulties with coping skills. I appreciate that individuals come to therapy because they are looking to improve their lives and gain new coping skills for the life challenges they are encountering. I am passionate about mental health and I will meet you exactly where you are and work with you to find the path through your challenges.
![Photo of Krista Gatti - Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de8291b7-78e9-4f13-9423-ce19b5db5f7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
![Photo of Adrianna Saldutto, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af02c12-8588-4b6b-a41f-f800fb4c982c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adrianna Saldutto
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Courtice, ON L1E (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Adrianna, a compassionate trauma therapist dedicated to your healing. With 12 years of experience in the field of Social Work, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, and IFS. My therapeutic approaches emphasize safety, trust, and empowerment, providing a supportive environment for processing and healing trauma. Beyond therapy, I am passionate about breathwork and somatic releases, which inform my holistic approach to trauma recovery. Together, let's work towards reclaiming your strength.
Welcome! I'm Adrianna, a compassionate trauma therapist dedicated to your healing. With 12 years of experience in the field of Social Work, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, and IFS. My therapeutic approaches emphasize safety, trust, and empowerment, providing a supportive environment for processing and healing trauma. Beyond therapy, I am passionate about breathwork and somatic releases, which inform my holistic approach to trauma recovery. Together, let's work towards reclaiming your strength.
![Photo of Susan Viminitz, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d091236-20cd-44b4-9a5f-dad14e08fbd3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Viminitz
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Oshawa, ON L1G (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you or your teen feeling alone, overwhelmed or experiencing grief? Reaching out for support is a courageous first step towards making changes or healing from a loss. I provide a compassionate and collaborative environment and specialize in the experience of grief, loss and life transitions including bereavement, end stages of life, chronic illness, dementia, caregiving, stress, anxiety, depression and emotional eating. When we are experiencing challenges, transitions or loss, we can benefit from an opportunity to explore what is impacting our emotional, physical, spiritual and psychological well-being, and to reflect on what we have lost and what remains.
Are you or your teen feeling alone, overwhelmed or experiencing grief? Reaching out for support is a courageous first step towards making changes or healing from a loss. I provide a compassionate and collaborative environment and specialize in the experience of grief, loss and life transitions including bereavement, end stages of life, chronic illness, dementia, caregiving, stress, anxiety, depression and emotional eating. When we are experiencing challenges, transitions or loss, we can benefit from an opportunity to explore what is impacting our emotional, physical, spiritual and psychological well-being, and to reflect on what we have lost and what remains.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Gentile Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bdaa03b-a5ec-4082-956c-3d62cd7adb04/3/320x400.jpeg)
You are struggling with your loved one’s diagnosis of a cognitive impairment and/or dementia. You are feeling the loss of this deteriorating disease. As a first responder, you are being called to help at the moment someone’s life is about to change, with that comes rewards but most days it brings devastating pain. Feeling out of control and helpless with ruminating thoughts may be what you are left with.
You are struggling with your loved one’s diagnosis of a cognitive impairment and/or dementia. You are feeling the loss of this deteriorating disease. As a first responder, you are being called to help at the moment someone’s life is about to change, with that comes rewards but most days it brings devastating pain. Feeling out of control and helpless with ruminating thoughts may be what you are left with.
![Photo of Charlotte Koven - KovenCounselling, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5c6ebd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
KovenCounselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5M (Online Only)
Whether the issues are end-of-life planning, parenting our parents, chronic illness, dementia/ alzheimer's, betrayal, estrangement, job loss, miscarriage, divorce, sudden, complicated or unexpected death, aging and transitions, or empty-nesting, we experience many similar reactions to loss. Fatigue, depression, anxiety, worry, guilt, and anger are just some of the manifestations. Trouble sleeping and self medicating with food, drugs or alcohol, even suicide seems like an alternative to the pain we carry around with us. I provide culturally sensitive counselling to a diverse community.Together we can create a more meaningful life, filled with truth, joy and love.
Whether the issues are end-of-life planning, parenting our parents, chronic illness, dementia/ alzheimer's, betrayal, estrangement, job loss, miscarriage, divorce, sudden, complicated or unexpected death, aging and transitions, or empty-nesting, we experience many similar reactions to loss. Fatigue, depression, anxiety, worry, guilt, and anger are just some of the manifestations. Trouble sleeping and self medicating with food, drugs or alcohol, even suicide seems like an alternative to the pain we carry around with us. I provide culturally sensitive counselling to a diverse community.Together we can create a more meaningful life, filled with truth, joy and love.
![Photo of Mary Meads - Wellington Music Therapy Services, RP, MTA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5e413ba-2aae-4c9e-b6e6-1505fefe8d9e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wellington Music Therapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MTA, MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1E
We currently have four Registered Psychotherapists / Certified Music Therapists on our team: Mary Meads, Jisca Rodrigues, Trina Chakrabarti and Valerie Sheese, who provide engaging and effective Music Psychotherapy, supporting children, youth, young adults, adults and older adults.
We believe in the unique power of music to form life-changing relationships, and are committed to a high quality of care that is adaptable, evidence-based, and built with respect through collaboration. Our team of Certified Music Therapists and Registered Psychotherapists are proud to serve clients across Southern Ontario – through strong community partnerships and relationships with clients and their families. Our mission is to provide access to evidence-based music therapy services to clients across the age and abilities spectrum. We provide both Individual and Group Music Psychotherapy services, in person and online.
We currently have four Registered Psychotherapists / Certified Music Therapists on our team: Mary Meads, Jisca Rodrigues, Trina Chakrabarti and Valerie Sheese, who provide engaging and effective Music Psychotherapy, supporting children, youth, young adults, adults and older adults.
We believe in the unique power of music to form life-changing relationships, and are committed to a high quality of care that is adaptable, evidence-based, and built with respect through collaboration. Our team of Certified Music Therapists and Registered Psychotherapists are proud to serve clients across Southern Ontario – through strong community partnerships and relationships with clients and their families. Our mission is to provide access to evidence-based music therapy services to clients across the age and abilities spectrum. We provide both Individual and Group Music Psychotherapy services, in person and online.
See more therapy options for Bowmanville
Nearby Dementia Counsellors Searches for Bowmanville
- Ajax
- Cobourg
- Lindsay
- Markham
- Oshawa
- Peterborough
- Pickering
- Port Perry
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Whitby
Dementia Counsellors
Can dementia patients benefit from counselling?
Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counselling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counsellors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counsellors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.
How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?
To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.
What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?
There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioural and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.
When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?
It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.