I said in the Aging tab that growing old was one of the hardest things I've done but I think at the top of that list of hard things was watching my dad struggle with dementia. Then only 5 years later I watched my mother's sister battle Alzheimer's. I’ve taken trainings and read countless resources that have helped me better understand these diseases, but I truly believe the greatest support comes from having someone walk alongside you on this very rocky path - whether you are living with dementia yourself or caring for someone you love. 

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Here are some things about dementia and mental health counseling.

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Mental health therapy can help people with dementia, particularly in the early to middle stages of the disease: 

• Talking therapy

  Can help reduce depression and anxiety and is most effective when the therapist has experience with dementia. Therapy should be adapted to the patient's level of communication, understanding, and memory. 

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

  Can help people with early-stage dementia cope with difficult problems                                                        by focusing on the present and working towards specific goals. 

• Dementia-specific counseling

  Can help family caregivers by improving their knowledge of the disease,                                                     and by helping them understand and adapt to changing caregiving needs. 

Other treatments for dementia include:

• Cognitive stimulation therapy

• Medication

• Alternative therapies like music therapy, aromatherapy, and reminiscence                                                work 

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The Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline can provide information on identifying appropriate counseling goals for people with dementia.