Once considered an unavoidable consequence of getting older, senility is now recognized as a physically based disease caused by brain cell loss. During senility, brain function or certain aspects of brain function decline to the point that a person becomes mentally disabled. Common symptoms that occur include loss of normal emotional responses, depression, fearfulness, forgetfulness, agitation, improvement in long term memory while short term memory actually declines. Paranoia, anger, fear of being alone, repeating conversations, self-neglect, failure to recognize people, insensitivity to the feelings of others, mood swings, jealousy and hoarding are also common.

Several diseases that affect brain function including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, atherosclerosis, hypothyroidism, diabetes, AIDS, alcoholism and kidney or liver failure can play a role in the development of dementia. Nutritional deficiencies - especially those of the B vitamins - can also cause dementia.

According to a 2002 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, older adults who develop gait abnormalities seem to be more than 3 and a half times more likely to get vascular or other non-Alzheimer's type dementia than those who do not.

In many cases, people that are diagnosed with senility are actually suffering from a condition characterized by those that mirror dementia but are actually caused by deafness, depression, use of certain drugs, brain tumors or liver or kidney problems called pseudodementia.

No known cure for dementia currently exists but because a decline in overall health contributes to the problem, the all natural regimen outlined below can help:

While the conditions that cause dementia are often unknown, some aspects of the disease are linked to cardiovascular disease, so following a heart-healthy lifestyle can help ward off the symptoms of senility.

The diet should be made up of 50-75 percent raw foods and low fat organic yogurt.

Drink plenty of pure water.

Engage in physical activity such as walking. A study concluded that dementia risk can be slashed by a whopping 30% to 40% by exercising at least three times per week.

Engage in activities that present a challenge mentally.

Dairy products, chocolate, seafood, nuts, white flour, fried foods and anything containing sugar should be avoided.

Treat high blood pressure, quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight and keep cholesterol in the normal range.

Anyone suspected of having dementia should be evaluated by a professional health care practitioner for a proper diagnosis.

Family support is essential for people suffering from senility.

Dementia progresses at different rates for each individual, so it is important to watch for signs of advancing symptoms and plan for the future of the affected individual.

The following supplements may also be beneficial:

Essential Fatty Acids (take as directed on label) - Researchers from Tufts University in Boston performed a study that indicates higher levels of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenioc acid (DHA) in the blood can greatly reduce the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. You can dramatically improve your brain health by consuming an adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids. I recommend using the brands Carlson's liquid fish oil or Nordic Naturals.

Dimethylglycine (DMG) (take as directed on label) - Helps maintain mental sharpness and enhances immune function.

Gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) (take as directed on label) - Essential for brain function and metabolism.

Garlic (two or more capsules twice daily) - Enhances brain function and helps reduce stress. Use Kyolic from Wakunaga of America.

Melatonin (2-3 mg daily taken 2 hours or less before bedtime) - Aids sleep; helps maintain equilibrium and strengthens the immune system.

High Potency Multivitamin (take as directed on label) - Essential to avoid deficiencies.

Lecithin Granules (1 tbsp 3 times daily) - Protects brain cells.

L-Carnosine (take as directed on label) - Helps stop the degradation of the body's proteins.

Vitamin B complex injections (1cc on a weekly basis or as prescribed by a qualified healthcare practitioner) - All B vitamins are needed for brain and nerve health.

Ginkgo Biloba - Improves cerebral circulation and enhances memory.

Qian ceng ta (take as directed on label) - This Chinese herb has the ability to increase memory retention.

Phosphatidyl Serine (take as directed on label) - Reverses depression and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Gotu Kola and Ginseng - Aid with memory function.

Kava Kava and St. John's Wort - Can help calm people who anger easily.

* Important notes: It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using any alternative therapies to treat dementia. Any recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.