Neurológia pre prax 3/2010

Alzheimer disease and the engagement of informal carers in a fight for the quality of life

A successful therapy of dementia should positively influence cognitive functions as well as the quality of life and behavioral and psychological symptoms. This goal can be achieved by combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Diseases manifesting with dementia are a heavy burden not only for the patients but also for caregivers caring for their relatives at home. The article reviews current therapeutic approaches to dementia with the focus on non-pharmacological interventions that informal carers might try or access in the home background.

Keywords: dementia, therapy, non-pharmacological approaches, BPSD, quality of life.