Complementary therapies for dementia
The term complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) covers many therapies. There is no apparent connection between many of these therapies, which often have diverse origins, theories and appearances.There is no precise definition of what exactly constitutes CAM. A good practical definition is 'interventions neither taught widely in medical schools, nor generally available in hospitals'. What may be 'complementary' medicine in one country may be 'conventional' in another. Vitamin supplementation may or may not be considered CAM depending on whether the dose is the recommended daily amount or not. Furthermore, many health care professionals now offer CAM treatments within the bounds of the NHS.
Common therapies that are covered in this leaflet include herbal medicine, aromatherapy and massage, music therapy, acupuncture, dietary supplements and melatonin and bright light therapy.
Complementary versus alternative medicine
CAM should only be used in addition to, not instead of, conventional medicine. If you decide to use CAM, it is important that you continue to see your doctor and keep him or her informed of the treatments you are undergoing and any medication you are taking.Although most CAM therapies have a good safety profile, it is not true to say that they are 100 per cent safe just because they are 'natural'. There are serious safety concerns about some forms of complement-ary and alternative medicine. For example, herbal preparations may interact harmfully with conventional drugs. It is, therefore, very important for your doctor to know what you are taking.
Don't worry about telling your doctor what you are using. Awareness of complementary and alternative medicine is increasing amongst the medical profession and most doctors are sympathetic to its use.
