Initially published as an article on FiftyPlusAdvocate.com.
Non-pharmacological therapies can be effective in treating the symptoms of dementia. They can help with both behavioral symptoms and memory problems. They include aromatherapy, sensory stimulation, light therapy, herbal medicine, dietary supplements, acupuncture, homeopathy, osteopathy, chiropractic and reflexology.
These types of therapies can be an alternative or a supplement to other treatments. But it is important to follow advice from your doctor about the way in which a treatment should be used. Doctors should always be kept informed about the use of any complementary therapies. Prescribed medication should never be discontinued without medical supervision. It’s also important to remember that no treatment is risk-free. Some herbal remedies can interact with other medications and, although it is rare, some therapies can cause bad reactions.
