Fact 12: Pain Can Impact the Effectiveness of Dementia Treatments
Pain can potentially impact the effectiveness of dementia treatments. This is particularly true for non-pharmacological interventions like cognitive stimulation therapy or physical therapy, where pain can limit the individual’s ability to engage fully.
For instance, cognitive stimulation therapy often involves activities that require concentration and engagement. If the person is in pain, they might find it challenging to focus on these activities, reducing their effectiveness. Similarly, physical therapy involves exercises designed to maintain mobility and prevent physical decline. However, if these exercises cause pain, the individual might be hesitant to participate, limiting their potential benefits.
Even for pharmacological treatments, pain can pose challenges. Pain can lead to increased stress and sleep disturbances, which can potentially influence how the body metabolizes and responds to medication. Furthermore, if a person with dementia is also taking pain medication, there could be interactions that might affect the effectiveness of the dementia drugs. (12)
