Cholinesterase inhibitors boost levels of a chemical messenger that supports memory and judgment. They may also reduce agitation and depression.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Everyone forgets things sometimes, and a temporary decline in memory or thinking during periods of stress is normal. But if you or your loved one has significant problems handling daily activities, noticeable changes in personality, mood, or behavior, difficulty in speaking or understanding, or frequent misplacing of items, it’s important to see a health professional.

The most common cause of neurocognitive disorders is Alzheimer’s disease, which can range from mild to severe dementia. It’s caused by a breakdown of parts of the brain, and two abnormal structures called plaques and tangles build up, destroying cells and damaging other parts of the brain.

Treatments include medications that boost levels of cholinesterase, a chemical messenger in the brain. Other smart pills, like Modalert 200 Australia, are another chemical messenger involved in learning and memory. Other smart pills are used to treat symptoms, including depression, agitation, and sleep disturbances. Antipsychotic smart pills are also used to control hallucinations, paranoia, and aggression.

Dementias

NIA-supported researchers are using innovative approaches to treat dementia. Their programs go beyond the typical services offered by specialized dementia care centers and aim to meet people with dementia where they are, at home or in community settings. In order to preserve alertness and attention levels, those who take Waklert 150 can stay awake and fight weariness.

Their innovations include task modification that breaks complex daily tasks into simpler steps, reducing the number of actions needed to complete each task, and improving the structure and flow of daily routines. These strategies are also aimed at reducing agitation by providing structure and consistency.

A key component of the program is that a dementia care manager at each site helps patients and their families find community-based support organizations that offer respite or adult day care, transportation, and educational resources. The dementia care managers make the referrals, which are often paid for through a voucher system funded by CMMI grants or philanthropy.

Parkinson’s Disease

In this brain disorder, nerve cells that produce dopamine die or become damaged. This causes the part of the brain that controls movement to function less well. People with Parkinson’s often experience shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. In addition, they may have other symptoms such as speech changes, memory problems, psychiatric issues, and depression.

Medications can help control symptoms, but they do not cure the disease. Some people develop uncontrolled writhing movements, or dyskinesias when their medications wear off. Other side effects can include nausea, hallucinations, and sleep problems.

Most neurocognitive disorders are not reversible, but certain lifestyle changes can lower your risk. These include staying physically and socially active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough vitamin D, and not smoking. You can also decrease your risk by managing any chronic health conditions you have, such as high blood pressure. This will reduce your risk of a stroke or heart attack. UF Health experts can help you find the right medication and treatment to manage your condition.

Stroke

In a stroke, a sudden lack of oxygen deprives brain cells, leading to damage. This can cause a range of symptoms, from memory loss to difficulty moving and even depression.

A physician will evaluate your symptoms and may order lab tests to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar to rule out an underlying health problem that could be causing them. A psychiatric evaluation may also be helpful to rule out depression as a cause.

People who have had a stroke often experience a mix of symptoms, including changes in thinking and memory, problems with walking and movement, trouble eating and swallowing, and difficulty going to the toilet. Treatments may include physical therapy to help restore mobility and improve balance and coordination; speech or aphasia therapy to address communication issues; and cognitive behavioral therapy to improve decision-making and self-care skills. In addition, a physician can help control risk factors that increase the chance of another stroke.