Dementia is caused by the destruction of brain cells. Once brain cells have been destroyed, they cannot be replaced. However, some causes of dementia can be treated. This may slow or stop the loss of more brain cells. When the cause of dementia can't be treated, the focus is on helping the person with daily activities and reducing upsetting symptoms.
Some medicines can help people with dementia.
Your family doctor will talk with you about treatment options. Wandering away and resisting care are also common. Medicines may be useful, but there are also other helpful things that can be done. To help keep a loved one with dementia from feeling upset, limit the number of difficult activities he or she has to do. Or schedule them for a time when the person is less agitated.