Treatment for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia

There is treatment for memory loss. Detailed assessment is critical.
Treatment includes cardiovascular optimization, life style interventions, medications, and cognitive training. Also, read Exercise and Memory, under the BRAIN WAVES tab.

Age Matters now offers a 2-month cognitive training program, using http://www.lumosity.com.

Our goals are to improve our clients everyday function! through this program. Baseline assessment, followed by mentored work in the clinic, then "homework", and further follow up. Successful clients can be referred for further training to Dr. Phillip Toman at http://choratech.com.


Other recommended online cognitive training programs include:
                          http://www.lumosity.com              http://www.positscience.com          and                 http://www.cognifit.com

The earlier we identify memory problems, the greater the opportunity to maintain the person's function and to delay or even to prevent deterioration.

Prevention and treatment for memory problems continues to improve. In 2008, the link between Cognition and Cardiovascular health has become the basis of improved therapy. High blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol abnormalities, obesity and inadequate exercise, have all been linked to cognitive and memory problems. Thus, we offer a double benefit. Focussing on the evaluation and optimal treatment of these risk factors can delay the onset and the progression of memory/cognitive disorders. Further, this same approach can delay and prevent the onset and progression of heart and stroke events.

The professionals of the Age Matters clinic are optimistic and supportive, seeking to improve the quality of life of our clients.

If you are concerned for yourself or for a loved one, Contact us for an assessment.

Medications for Cognitive Impairment

There are 2 groups of medications used to help boost memory and attention, and to alleviate other symptoms of cognitive impairment.           Cholinesterase Inhibitors include Aricept, Reminyl, and Exelon. Age Matters Clinic finds these medications beneficial:
                        20% of clients have recognizable subjective and objective improvement
                        60% additional clients will stabilize
                        10% will require a trial of 2 or 3 of these, until we find the medication that is right for them
                        Sadly, 10% will not respond to any of these medications.
                        All of these medications are covered under the ODB program for people over 65 years of age.
                        For further information, please seek out http://www.alzheimertoronto.org

NMDA Inhibitors is the second group of beneficial medications. These are reserved for clients who cannot use Cholinesterase Inhibitors, and for those who are worsening, despite the best treatments. Currently, the only available NMDA medication is Ebixa. Ebixa is not covered under ODB, but may be covered under private insurance.

Current Research

Sadly, current research is disappointing... yet again.

Dimebon, a new atypical agent with a dramatically positive Phase 2 trial in Russia, failed in a Phase 3 trial in North America. The results remind us of the failed process with Alzhemed, another product "rushed" enthusiastically into Phase 3 trials which failed. For details please see this website:
http://www.alzforum.org/new/detail.asp?id=2387