Do You or someone you care for, have Dementia?

​

Although we know there is no cure for Dementia, there are treatments and tools to help maintain a good quality of life until later stages of the condition develop.

​

A scientist at the University of Liverpool has found that hypnosis can slow down the impacts of dementia and improve quality of life for those living with the condition.

​

Forensic psychologist, Dr Simon Duff, investigated the effects of hypnosis on people living with dementia and compared the treatment to mainstream health-care methods. He also looked at how hypnosis compared to a type of group therapy in which participants were encouraged to discuss news and current affairs.

 

The research found that people living with dementia who had received hypnosis showed an improvement in 7 key areas over a 9 month research period, and continued benefits seen during a lengthly study conducted 12 months later.

 

Dr Duff said: “Over a nine month period of weekly sessions, it became clear that the participants attending the discussion group remained the same throughout. The group who received ‘treatment as usual’ showed a small decline over the assessment period, yet those having regular hypnosis sessions showed real improvement across all of the areas that we looked at. Those receiving regular hypnosis sessions showed real improvement across the areas listed below;

 

• Improved focused concentration.

• Short term memory improvements.

• Better memory recall of important events.

• Improved socialisation.

• Increased confidence to carry out daily activities.

• Reduced levels of anxiety.

• Increased self motivation.

​

“Participants who are aware of the onset of dementia may become depressed and anxious at their gradual loss of cognitive ability and so hypnosis – which is a tool for relaxation – can really help the mind concentrate on positive activity like socialisation.”

​

Further research will now take place to establish whether hypnosis maintains its effects on dementia as the illness progresses, over longer periods of time.

​

Dr Dan Nightingale, co-author of the research and leading dementia consultant at the Abacus Clinic in Newark, added: “Evidence to date has shown that we can enhance the quality of life for people living with dementia through the correct use of hypnosis.”

​

​

If you, someone you love or your care home or day centre would like more information, or to book sessions for Hypnotherapy for symptoms of Dementia, please contact our Clinical Hypnotherapist Joanna Stokoe Directly, She'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

​

 

* Please Note: Hypnotherapy for the symptoms of dementia is not to be used as sole treatment, but as a holistic treatment alongside your medical professional.

​

Article based on Hypnotherapy treatment & dementia at University of Liverpool Study

Original Article & Source here