Dementia is a classification for disorders that progressively lower cognitive ability and brain functioning. There are around 200 different types of dementia, but the most common are Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and mixed dementia.
The brain works by using nerve cells (neurons) that communicate with one another to perform a number of cognitive functions. In people with dementia, the nerve cells become damaged. This means that messages do not effectively pass between the nerve cells, lowering a number of functions in the brain and body. Having dementia affects people in different ways, and its progression may be either fast or slow depending on the type of dementia, how long it has been untreated, and an individual’s unique response to treatment.
The early signs of dementia are not always obvious, as they can be attributed with general signs of aging. However, dementia also affects how a person thinks, behaves and feels. Dementia usually begins in those over 65 years of age. For those who are younger, it is known as early onset dementia. Symptoms may include:
- memory loss
- mental sharpness
- slower thinking
- differences in language use, such as not being able to find the right words
- changes in mood, emotion and behaviour
- changes in movement
- difficulty in doing usual activities
As yet, there is no cure for dementia. As the stages of dementia progress, a person may become worse over time. They may become anxious or agitated in social situations, parts of their personality may change, and they may suffer with hallucinations. Eventually, the patient will need constant care.
Getting an early diagnosis can greatly improve quality of life for dementia sufferers, as they will have access to treatments that slow down progression and many are able to live active and enjoyable lives for many years.
Traditional Treatment Options for Dementia
A combination of therapies, daily caring and medications are used to help people manage dementia stages, and maintain their independence for as long as possible.
By far, the most important treatment for people with dementia is support and care. Regular assessments of their condition should be made to help create a plan for daily living. In order to keep their independence, a person may need a daily routine planned out for them and written down. Depending on a person’s practical abilities, they may need support with looking after themselves. This could be done by family members, nurses or other types of carer.
Therapies that may help to maintain cognitive functioning for longer include encouraging the person to reminisce about past memories, take part in activities such as puzzles and games, socialising in a supportive setting, as well as physical activity to promote overall happiness and health.
Medications used for dementia are used to manage the direct symptoms, while other medications are used to treat the secondary symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. Medications do not always work, or may only work for a short period of time. They may also produce unwanted side effects.
Heath supplements such as CBD oil have also shown to be useful in helping to manage symptoms of dementia, and its co-existing conditions.
CBD Oil for Dementia
CBD is a cannabinoid that is extracted from hemp plants and used to create a health supplement with many therapeutic benefits. Hemp is a plant from the cannabis family, but unlike the recreational or prescribed drug marijuana, it does not contain high levels of THC, the compound that makes users feel high. CBD oil is completely safe and legal, and has many health benefits, including for those with dementia.
Because of the side effects of medications, many look into using CBD oil for dementia and Alzheimer’s. As there is no cure, there is not yet any proven evidence that CBD reverses dementia. However, it does help manage symptoms, especially the behavioural aspect such as agitation, anxiety and depression. CBD oil is also effective in relieving insomnia, which may also be a problem for people with dementia.
CBD is an effective anti-inflammatory, reducing inflammation all over the body including the brain. In addition, its neuro-protective properties may also help to reduce the severity of some symptoms of dementia.
Early studies into CBD and dementia show promise. A study in 2016 by the Californian Salk Institute looked at how CBD could potentially be used as a treatment for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. It found that it was effective at removing plaque-forming proteins in the brain, a key indicator of Alzheimer’s disease1. It is an exciting discovery that suggests that CBD and other cannabinoids could have more significance as a treatment for dementia in the future. As more research is carried out, the more we will learn the benefits of CBD and it therapeutic properties.
The most effective CBD oil dosage for dementia will depend on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. The best way to begin is by using our CBD oil dosage calculator. By putting in a few details about a person and their condition, you will get a CBD dosage recommendation that is perfectly matched to the individual. The result are fast, and are displayed on your screen as well as sent to your preferred email address.
While studies are ongoing into CBD and dementia, what is apparent is that using CBD can bring an improvement in the behavioural symptoms, as well as helping dementia patients feel more relaxed and at ease. Using CBD can greatly benefit people with dementia symptoms, and with the right dosage and a good quality oil, will improve patient’s well-being.
What you need to know about CBD, dementia and associated conditions
Dementia is a progressive illness that affects how brains cells send messages to one another. With reduced brain cell functioning, a variety of symptoms show in people with dementia. There are lots of types of dementia, yet they all impair memory and practical abilities. People with dementia need support and care to stay independent, until eventually continual care is needed as the disease progresses.
When diagnosed with dementia, it can be difficult to cope with, especially if a person is still at an early stage. No matter how far dementia has progressed, it can lead to depression and anxiety as the patient becomes increasingly unable to do the things they once did. Confusion and frustration can lead to behavioural problems, such as becoming agitated or aggressive. Using CBD for dementia can help to provide relief from some of the secondary effects of dementia.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia yet. However, early research into dementia and CBD oil show its potential both as a direct treatment, as well as its ability to relieve a variety of symptoms. Always source the best quality oil from a trusted supplier to get the best therapeutic results.
The most effective CBD dose will depend on the individual. The best way to find the right dose of CBD is to use our CBD calculator. You can add details about a person and their condition and receive a personalised recommendation in minutes!