February 14, 2005 Alzheimer's erodes memory, a painful ordeal
for anyone afflicted with the disease, but problem behaviors
such as agitation and aggression add to the burden of caring for
this difficult illness. Medications provide only limited
benefits for such problem behaviors, doctors have found. Caring
for someone with Alzheimer's requires patience and special
strategies. Alternative therapies such as playing music,
aromatherapy, and pet therapy may provide some additional help.
Although memory loss is a hallmark of Alzheimer's, problem
behaviors occur in well over half of men and women with the
disease. People with Alzheimer's may become agitated and
aggressive, kicking and screaming and throwing objects across a
room. They may also suffer from delusions and hallucinations, or
exhibit a dangerous tendency to wander and get lost. These
behaviors can be especially trying for family members and
caregivers, adding to the daily stress of coping with and caring
for the disease. Doctors commonly prescribe a wi