Dementia Therapists in Vaughan, ON
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.
She has held various hospital-based positions including director of a memory rehabilitation program & consultant neuropsychologist.
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
She has held various hospital-based positions including director of a memory rehabilitation program & consultant neuropsychologist.
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
I am an accomplished and compassionate clinical social worker who has been practicing psychotherapy for over 25 years in various clinical settings. I bring a wide range of skilled approaches to therapy sessions, and have extensive experience working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and complex life situations. My fields of specialization include anxiety and depression, transitions across the life course, caregiving, chronic illness, dementia, grief and bereavement, family dynamics and school and workplace stress. I am licensed in the provinces of Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
I am an accomplished and compassionate clinical social worker who has been practicing psychotherapy for over 25 years in various clinical settings. I bring a wide range of skilled approaches to therapy sessions, and have extensive experience working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and complex life situations. My fields of specialization include anxiety and depression, transitions across the life course, caregiving, chronic illness, dementia, grief and bereavement, family dynamics and school and workplace stress. I am licensed in the provinces of Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Working alongside my clients, my mission is to create and nurture trusting relationships so we can uncover, understand, and heal the concerns and pains that have led to difficulty and dissatisfaction in their lives. Using an integrative, emotionally-focused, client-centred approach, my goal is to ensure that each person who comes into my office is treated as an individual with a story and history as unique as their fingerprint.
Working alongside my clients, my mission is to create and nurture trusting relationships so we can uncover, understand, and heal the concerns and pains that have led to difficulty and dissatisfaction in their lives. Using an integrative, emotionally-focused, client-centred approach, my goal is to ensure that each person who comes into my office is treated as an individual with a story and history as unique as their fingerprint.
Michelle Sinardo | Windmill Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H (Online Only)
You don’t have to go through it alone! Together, we can talk about what is weighing on your mind and navigate the road ahead. There is hope - even if you feel stuck, worried about the future, or simply don't know where to start.
You don’t have to go through it alone! Together, we can talk about what is weighing on your mind and navigate the road ahead. There is hope - even if you feel stuck, worried about the future, or simply don't know where to start.
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Elissa Shnier
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J (Online Only)
I am a social worker with years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, providing individual and family counselling. I have extensive skills in helping clients cope with anxiety, stress, depression, physical and mental health issues, addictions, financial challenges, caregiver stress, adjustment to illness, and bereavement.
I am a social worker with years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, providing individual and family counselling. I have extensive skills in helping clients cope with anxiety, stress, depression, physical and mental health issues, addictions, financial challenges, caregiver stress, adjustment to illness, and bereavement.
Michelle Factor
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J (Online Only)
Getting through long days and restless nights is often challenging and overwhelming. Feeling sad and alone? Lost and troubled? I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Join me in a supportive, compassionate, and safe space so we can take the journey together to rediscover your true self. With the right approach in the comfort of your own home, these daily battles can be overcome. Together we will find the right approach for you so that growth will occur in many positive ways. I work with adults of all ages. My modalities are mindfulness and acceptance cognitive behavior therapy and art therapy.
Getting through long days and restless nights is often challenging and overwhelming. Feeling sad and alone? Lost and troubled? I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Join me in a supportive, compassionate, and safe space so we can take the journey together to rediscover your true self. With the right approach in the comfort of your own home, these daily battles can be overcome. Together we will find the right approach for you so that growth will occur in many positive ways. I work with adults of all ages. My modalities are mindfulness and acceptance cognitive behavior therapy and art therapy.
Andrew Youssef
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MTS, MPS, PhD, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I believe that every person and every relationship is sacred. As a psychotherapist with a background in spiritual care, I aspire to help individuals see the sacred light within themselves. I do not listen to my clients to “fix,” to respond, or to debate with them; rather, I listen to provide presence, connection, and support on their respective journeys.
I believe that every person and every relationship is sacred. As a psychotherapist with a background in spiritual care, I aspire to help individuals see the sacred light within themselves. I do not listen to my clients to “fix,” to respond, or to debate with them; rather, I listen to provide presence, connection, and support on their respective journeys.
When individuals experience trauma or severe life stressors, it may become increasingly difficult to navigate day to day life. I ensure a safe space is cultivated by taking a person-centered approach; ensuring cultivation of a safe space through kindness, openness, empathy, and compassion. My greatest passion as a Clinician is to show how there is uniqueness and restoration in one's story, one's pain and collection of struggles.
When individuals experience trauma or severe life stressors, it may become increasingly difficult to navigate day to day life. I ensure a safe space is cultivated by taking a person-centered approach; ensuring cultivation of a safe space through kindness, openness, empathy, and compassion. My greatest passion as a Clinician is to show how there is uniqueness and restoration in one's story, one's pain and collection of struggles.
I offer a warm, non-judgemental, confidential environment to discuss your issues. As a registered psychotherapist and counsellor, I am mindful of early life experiences, family dynamics and parental relationships and recognize that these may be integral to your narrative. As an integrative psychotherapist, I use a variety of approaches and modalities. These can be discussed with you during the early stages of the counselling process or become a more organic experience as we begin working together.
I offer a warm, non-judgemental, confidential environment to discuss your issues. As a registered psychotherapist and counsellor, I am mindful of early life experiences, family dynamics and parental relationships and recognize that these may be integral to your narrative. As an integrative psychotherapist, I use a variety of approaches and modalities. These can be discussed with you during the early stages of the counselling process or become a more organic experience as we begin working together.
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Emotional issues of life events can preoccupy us or leave us feeling anxious, confused, angry or depressed. Are your feelings affecting your work life balance, relationships or ability to cope with daily activities? Are you experiencing challenges such as, people struggling to understand you or are you experiencing difficulties in making sense of your own emotions. I work with teenagers, adults, couples and families providing therapeutic services for a wide range of mood related disorders to include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family conflict, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma and relationship difficulties.
Emotional issues of life events can preoccupy us or leave us feeling anxious, confused, angry or depressed. Are your feelings affecting your work life balance, relationships or ability to cope with daily activities? Are you experiencing challenges such as, people struggling to understand you or are you experiencing difficulties in making sense of your own emotions. I work with teenagers, adults, couples and families providing therapeutic services for a wide range of mood related disorders to include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family conflict, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma and relationship difficulties.
Do you, or someone you care about, live with chronic pain, chronic illness, or disability? Life can be altered dramatically by illness, injury, loss, and so much more. And change that feels out of our control is HARD! Whether you are trying to find yourself, find peace, or find joy, it can help to talk with someone. I offer a compassionate space for all people, regardless of ability, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality. I take an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist, and trauma informed approach to therapy to ensure that everyone has a place where they can feel heard without fear of judgement.
Do you, or someone you care about, live with chronic pain, chronic illness, or disability? Life can be altered dramatically by illness, injury, loss, and so much more. And change that feels out of our control is HARD! Whether you are trying to find yourself, find peace, or find joy, it can help to talk with someone. I offer a compassionate space for all people, regardless of ability, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality. I take an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist, and trauma informed approach to therapy to ensure that everyone has a place where they can feel heard without fear of judgement.
Mehek Chaudhry
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MSc, HBSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J (Online Only)
I am a passionate and dedicated registered psychotherapist (qualifying) who is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I identify as a person of colour who can understand the challenges and struggles that arise from your worldviews and perspectives. You can expect to be welcomed into a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you will feel heard, seen, and accepted. I am sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals face.
I am a passionate and dedicated registered psychotherapist (qualifying) who is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I identify as a person of colour who can understand the challenges and struggles that arise from your worldviews and perspectives. You can expect to be welcomed into a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you will feel heard, seen, and accepted. I am sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals face.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
Bavly Kost
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MA, MPS, RP, OCT
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L6A
You are here because you are looking for something. Something that either reveals deeper aspects of who you are or shows that you are attempting to learn more about yourself. Being human is a messy journey filled with highs and lows, fears, stresses, and anxieties. Let's journey together as we navigate life's challenges and see what life can offer you. My experience is expansive as it ranges from therapy in the health care setting, to private therapy and supporting trauma clients. I have worked with a variety of clients but not limited to, mental health, palliative care, bereavement support, and long-term care clients.
You are here because you are looking for something. Something that either reveals deeper aspects of who you are or shows that you are attempting to learn more about yourself. Being human is a messy journey filled with highs and lows, fears, stresses, and anxieties. Let's journey together as we navigate life's challenges and see what life can offer you. My experience is expansive as it ranges from therapy in the health care setting, to private therapy and supporting trauma clients. I have worked with a variety of clients but not limited to, mental health, palliative care, bereavement support, and long-term care clients.
Luminare Counselling
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H (Online Only)
Do you lie awake at night because you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the obstacles life has thrown at you? Feel detached and confused about a relationship that you feel “stuck” in? Depressed and having difficulty adjusting to a new illness involving you or your loved one? Unresolved anger creating trouble in your relationships and workplace? Or are you at the end of your rope because you are deeply concerned about your child’s behavior? To best suit your individual needs, I offer a variety of evidenced based approaches in a safe space where you can feel free to be 100% of yourself without worrying about being judged.
Do you lie awake at night because you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the obstacles life has thrown at you? Feel detached and confused about a relationship that you feel “stuck” in? Depressed and having difficulty adjusting to a new illness involving you or your loved one? Unresolved anger creating trouble in your relationships and workplace? Or are you at the end of your rope because you are deeply concerned about your child’s behavior? To best suit your individual needs, I offer a variety of evidenced based approaches in a safe space where you can feel free to be 100% of yourself without worrying about being judged.
Mindfulness Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, Psyc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
Mindfulness based psychotherapy is a powerful approach to healing that is based on the ancient wisdom of how to work with our own minds. Mindfulness is defined by paying attention, with intention, in the present moment, without judgment. Clients who practice mindfulness skills share that their lives are more positive, they have an enhanced sense of well-being and better relationships all around. In Mindfulness Psychotherapy, I work with clients to support their development of moment-by-moment awareness by teaching a variety of skills and techniques, which will aid in their development.
Mindfulness based psychotherapy is a powerful approach to healing that is based on the ancient wisdom of how to work with our own minds. Mindfulness is defined by paying attention, with intention, in the present moment, without judgment. Clients who practice mindfulness skills share that their lives are more positive, they have an enhanced sense of well-being and better relationships all around. In Mindfulness Psychotherapy, I work with clients to support their development of moment-by-moment awareness by teaching a variety of skills and techniques, which will aid in their development.
Juanna Nguyen
Registered Psychotherapist, BMT, MEd, MTA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Not accepting new clients
Hello! My name is Juanna and I am a Certified Music Therapist, a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Registered Psychotherapist. I am open to seeing clients of any age. Whether you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, performance anxiety, family/relationship issues, trauma, grief, and/or otherwise, I am here to guide you in 1) exploring and understanding your emotions in a non-judgmental space and 2) finding meaning and gaining insight into your experiences.
Hello! My name is Juanna and I am a Certified Music Therapist, a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Registered Psychotherapist. I am open to seeing clients of any age. Whether you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, performance anxiety, family/relationship issues, trauma, grief, and/or otherwise, I am here to guide you in 1) exploring and understanding your emotions in a non-judgmental space and 2) finding meaning and gaining insight into your experiences.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
Do you feel completely flooded by intense emotion? Do these emotions get in the way of life’s tasks? That, despite your best efforts, nothing seems to shake it? It’s normal to feel overwhelmed about stress, traumatic experiences, relationship troubles, and grief as well as loss. It can be hard to see the better days ahead. Therapy can help you heal, grow, and thrive. You can make tomorrow better than today. I am here to journey with you – you don’t have to do it alone.
Do you feel completely flooded by intense emotion? Do these emotions get in the way of life’s tasks? That, despite your best efforts, nothing seems to shake it? It’s normal to feel overwhelmed about stress, traumatic experiences, relationship troubles, and grief as well as loss. It can be hard to see the better days ahead. Therapy can help you heal, grow, and thrive. You can make tomorrow better than today. I am here to journey with you – you don’t have to do it alone.
More Therapists Nearby
Katelyn Beveridge
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
Through my professional experiences, I have worked a great deal with individuals struggling with Alzheimer’s, aging, caregiver support as well as anxiety & depression.
Life is difficult! But it is important to know that you don’t have to do it alone. From personal experience, I know how a non-judgmental, safe, & empowering space can allow for self-exploration & personal growth. My goal is to be aware of your individual needs & put your well-being first. I utilize a client-centred approach that integrates mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, & solution focused therapy to collaborate with clients on their desired goals & outcomes of our sessions.
Through my professional experiences, I have worked a great deal with individuals struggling with Alzheimer’s, aging, caregiver support as well as anxiety & depression.
Life is difficult! But it is important to know that you don’t have to do it alone. From personal experience, I know how a non-judgmental, safe, & empowering space can allow for self-exploration & personal growth. My goal is to be aware of your individual needs & put your well-being first. I utilize a client-centred approach that integrates mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, & solution focused therapy to collaborate with clients on their desired goals & outcomes of our sessions.
Individuals come to me to get the support concerning, Depression, Anxiety, Difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility, lack of purpose, Insomnia, Loss and Bereavement, Mood challenges, Life Transitions, Midlife Crisis, Loneliness, Low Self-esteem, Memory loss and Dementia, Transition to living in Retirement Home or Long Term Care home, Stress.
**WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS FOR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS** Taking the first step towards reaching out for help is a difficult experience. It comes with doubts, uncertainties, and many fears. As we age we can experience challenges and loss in many different forms but you don't have to do this alone. I am a professional Social Worker that specialize in older adults and I am here to help, with a calm non-judgmental and supportive approach. Together we will develop the necessary coping skills to help you identify your strengths and creates personal wellness goals.
Individuals come to me to get the support concerning, Depression, Anxiety, Difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility, lack of purpose, Insomnia, Loss and Bereavement, Mood challenges, Life Transitions, Midlife Crisis, Loneliness, Low Self-esteem, Memory loss and Dementia, Transition to living in Retirement Home or Long Term Care home, Stress.
**WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS FOR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS** Taking the first step towards reaching out for help is a difficult experience. It comes with doubts, uncertainties, and many fears. As we age we can experience challenges and loss in many different forms but you don't have to do this alone. I am a professional Social Worker that specialize in older adults and I am here to help, with a calm non-judgmental and supportive approach. Together we will develop the necessary coping skills to help you identify your strengths and creates personal wellness goals.
Eleanor Silverberg
Registered Social Worker, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
My intention, using a client centered approach, is to empower so you can self monitor with self awareness. I can assist you in coping through a variety of situational loss circumstances such as health decline, family illness, death, job loss, financial loss, aging, divorce – with a specialty in assisting caregivers of family members living with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other ongoing serious condition. I've written 2 books specifically to assist family caregivers & the professionals who service them, "Caregiving with Strength" and "Keeping It Together: How to Cope as a Family Caregiver without Losing Your Sanity", a hands-on guide.
My intention, using a client centered approach, is to empower so you can self monitor with self awareness. I can assist you in coping through a variety of situational loss circumstances such as health decline, family illness, death, job loss, financial loss, aging, divorce – with a specialty in assisting caregivers of family members living with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other ongoing serious condition. I've written 2 books specifically to assist family caregivers & the professionals who service them, "Caregiving with Strength" and "Keeping It Together: How to Cope as a Family Caregiver without Losing Your Sanity", a hands-on guide.
Aaron Lightstone
Registered Psychotherapist, MMT, RP, MTA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2K
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 20 years of experience in the use of music to improve the lives, health, and functioning of people with a range of health challenges including mental illness, dementia, and acquired brain injury.
I am a Fellow of the Academy for Neurologic Music Therapy and most of my work is focused on the use of music (neurologic music therapy NMT) to help people recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) recover significant aspects of lost abilities (speech and language, cognitive, emotional, and sensory-motor skills. I also have extensive experience in the application of music therapy and music-based psychotherapy to mental health concerns. I have also been extensively involved in music therapy in hospice and palliative care to maximize comfort during end of life care.
I have over 20 years of experience in the use of music to improve the lives, health, and functioning of people with a range of health challenges including mental illness, dementia, and acquired brain injury.
I am a Fellow of the Academy for Neurologic Music Therapy and most of my work is focused on the use of music (neurologic music therapy NMT) to help people recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) recover significant aspects of lost abilities (speech and language, cognitive, emotional, and sensory-motor skills. I also have extensive experience in the application of music therapy and music-based psychotherapy to mental health concerns. I have also been extensively involved in music therapy in hospice and palliative care to maximize comfort during end of life care.
See more therapy options for Vaughan
Nearby Dementia Counsellors Searches for Vaughan
- Aurora
- Bradford
- Brampton
- Etobicoke
- Markham
- Mississauga
- Newmarket
- North York
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Toronto
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.