What are non-drug approaches?

Non-pharmacological interventions are ways of easing dementia symptoms without medicine, such as changing routines, the environment and how caregivers respond. The Alzheimer's Association says non-drug approaches should always be tried first. They start by recognizing that the person is not just acting mean but having symptoms of the disease, finding the cause of a behavior, and changing the surroundings to restore comfort and security.

The Alzheimer's Association suggests checking first for pain, hunger, thirst, constipation, a full bladder, fatigue or infection. Then avoid arguing about facts, respond to the emotion rather than the behavior, and redirect the person's attention. A calm setting helps: less noise, glare and background television, rest between busy events, and a familiar security object. Ask the doctor about medicines or illness that could be causing the change.

The National Institute on Aging suggests speaking calmly, listening and reassuring the person they are safe, without arguing. Keep a steady routine for bathing, dressing and meals, reduce noise and clutter, play soothing music and keep familiar photos nearby. Distraction with a snack, a walk or a simple chore such as folding laundry can help. Since agitation often has a cause, a doctor's exam can look for physical problems.

The National Institute on Aging says people with Lewy body dementia may benefit from physical therapy and exercise for movement problems, speech therapy for voice and swallowing, occupational therapy for everyday tasks such as eating and bathing, and music or expressive arts therapy to reduce anxiety. Simple tasks, consistent schedules and enough sleep help too, while crowds and overstimulating places can raise confusion. Medicines need special care in this disease.

Yes, mainly for behavior and quality of life rather than the disease itself. The National Institute on Aging says experts agree that medicines for behavior problems such as sleeplessness, wandering and agitation should be used only after non-drug strategies have been tried. It also notes that sleep aids can make people with Alzheimer's more confused and likely to fall, and that lifestyle changes can improve sleep instead.