Alzheimers Disease | Alzheimer's Disease > Alzheimer's Treatment > Some Possible Treatments That Help With Alzheimer's Some Possible Treatments That Help With Alzheimer'sI recently ordered materials from: Innovative Caregiving Resources These materials were developed at the University of Utah, and are endorsed by the University as well as by the Utah Department of Human Services and the National Alzheimer's Association. The materials have proven to be beneficial for both the patient and the caregiver. According to the information sent to me in their free packet and what I have viewed on their website, these tapes engage the patient's attention (even those who will not watch television). They give the individual a time of one-on-one interaction with a "person" whose entire attention is focused on reliving the fond memories of a time many of the patients still remember – their youth. Even though they do not remember the tapes per se, because of the loss of their short-term memory, watching them and engaging in the interactive conversation and music seems to enhance the patient's quality of life. For some patients the tapes help them calm down when they become agitated. As needed, the tapes can be played back-to-back since the patient will not remember he/she has recently viewed them. The tapes have been used both in group settings (nursing homes) and individual. Both ways work. There are a number of tapes of varying lengths, and one each of special interest to men, Jewish people, and African-American people. The benefit to the caregiver is obvious – precious minutes in which to accomplish chores or have some respite time in the midst of giving the intensive attention every Alzheimer patient needs. I have no idea of how well-known this resource is, since I am not personally involved in Alzheimer care, but I'm sure it should be listed prominently in any source of help regarding care of Alzheimer's patients. I also don't know if there are other sources for similar materials. I also have read somewhere that PS (phosphatidyl serine) from soybeans can reverse the disease. If this is at all true, I'm sure there would be more information about it on the internet, possibly on chats such as one hosted by www.hsibaltimore.com (Health Sciences Institute) or www.lef.org (Life Extension Foundation). |