Photo of Mary Jo Brunhaver, MA, LCPC, Counselor in 62269, IL
Mary Jo Brunhaver, MA, LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269  (Online Only)
I am licensed clinical professional counselor with years of experience working in community counseling mental health facilities and in private practice. I have an extensive background working with clients who are living with mental illnesses, such as: mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, personality disorders, clients with mood dysregulation issues, problematic thought processes, and behavioral issues. I have also worked with clients that are merely going through a difficult transition in life.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor with years of experience working in community counseling mental health facilities and in private practice. I have an extensive background working with clients who are living with mental illnesses, such as: mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, personality disorders, clients with mood dysregulation issues, problematic thought processes, and behavioral issues. I have also worked with clients that are merely going through a difficult transition in life.
(618) 710-4033 View (618) 710-4033
Alzheimer's Therapists

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

The first-line treatment for Alzheimer’s disease is often medication, which may be prescribed based on the severity of the disease. These include cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, or a combination of the two. Behavioral treatments can help people cope with emotional distress, such as anxiety or anger, and explore lifestyle changes related to housing, caregiving, sleep, and finances.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of dementia. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with treatment and plan for the future in terms of housing, support, finances, and legality.

Are there specific medications to treat Alzheimer’s?

Medications approved by the FDA to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s include galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, and memantine, donepezil, and the rivastigmine patch for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. These drugs can help manage the disease, but no drug currently cures the disease. Medications recently approved by the FDA, such aducanumab and lecanemab may slow the disease course, but aspects of their effectiveness are still debated.

Are there natural treatments for Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease cannot be cured via natural remedies (nor via medication), but some lifestyle habits can help forestall it or slow its progression. Lifestyle activities that can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease include regular exercise, a healthy, well-rounded diet, stimulating cognitive activity, time spent socializing, adequate sleep, and stress management as needed.