In a realm where memories are fragile strands, susceptible to distortion and vanishing, a ray of hope emerges in an unexpected guise: talk therapy. This extraordinary ability of conversation has not only aided individuals to openly share their burdens but has also shown remarkable benefits for those grappling with dementia.
What research says
Research has found that many people with dementia also live with depression and anxiety. In such cases, talk therapy may help relieve symptoms of this condition and optimise the quality of life. According to a 2022 paper published in The Lancet, symptoms of depression improved in persons living with dementia (PLWD) with the help of psychological therapy.
Dr Naveen Jayaram, psychiatrist based in Bengaluru, says 20-30 percent of people who come to him with problems of anxiety and depression are later diagnosed with dementia. “In the initial stages of dementia, there is a panic that sets in, especially if the person has co-morbidities. Thoughts such as ‘who will take care, what will happen’ can trigger more depression and anxiety,” he says.
Understanding dementia
Dementia is a condition where one is unable to think, remember and reason, to an extent where it hampers one’s everyday life. The severity of dementia ranges from mild, where it starts affecting the day-to-day functioning, to severe where the person has to rely on others for fundamental activities like feeding oneself.
Dementia usually affects those in their 60s. One could also be prone to this condition if it runs in the family. Dr Jayaram says it is usually diagnosed in one’s old age. However, “If one has many stressors, the condition may be preponed. History of recurrent episodes of depression or a long-standing psychiatric illness can also make them vulnerable to dementia,” he adds.
The number of people diagnosed with dementia is on the rise, say experts. This is because “we are not engaging our minds adequately and there are not enough neuronal connections we are able to establish,” says Dr Jayaram.
How can talk therapy help?
Talk therapy is used by mental health experts to communicate with individuals efficiently. It helps identify problems that cause emotional distress.
Dr Abirami Vivek, counselling psychologist and founder director of Magnet Minds in Chennai, says talk therapy, although for a few may be difficult initially, but can be beneficial in the early stages of dementia. “It can be tough to get PLWD to speak to strangers. However, they ultimately get comfortable and speak to the therapists. Tact and sensitivity are a must when communicating with people with dementia,” she adds.
In talk therapy, the therapist employs customised techniques to initiate dialogue with the individual. According to Dr Jayaram, it is crucial to evaluate and address each person’s unique cognitive and memory requirements. Talk therapy entails providing a diagnosis, offering suggestions for maintaining personal amusement, managing daily routines, and incorporating meditation practices. Moreover, engaging in cognitive activities such as solving puzzles like sudoku or crosswords has demonstrated promising results in slowing down the progression of the condition.
Important for the caregiver
The person receiving care as well as the caregiver’s mental health hold equal significance, necessitating equal attention and support. In numerous instances, caregivers experience depression due to anxiety that emerges when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia.
“In an Indian scenario especially, where there are joint family setups there could be adequate care from the caregiver. The relationship with the caregiver, and the understanding between the two is important. We have talk therapies with the family member or caregiver or in some cases with the person alone, depending on the circumstances and the progression of the condition,” says Dr Jayaram.
Other kinds of therapy to help PLWD
Besides talk therapy, there are other kinds of therapy PLWD can opt for, depending on what works best. “Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) works through changing your belief systems and understanding how emotions affect you. One can also opt for yoga therapy and breathing exercises as these can teach mindfulness practices,” adds Dr Jayaram.
Dr Vivek lists a few other therapies that PLWD can go for
- Cognitive stimulation therapy
- Behavioural therapy for dementia
- Music therapy
- Art therapy
- Dance and movement therapy
