What is the purpose of sertraline when treating dementia?

• A. It will allow her mother to live independently for several more years.
• B. It will not improve her dementia but can help control emotional responses.
• C. It is used to halt the advancement of Alzheimer disease but will not cure it.
• D. It is used to improve short-term memory but will not improve problem solving.

Answer: (B)

Sertraline is used in dementia to manage mood and behavioral symptoms, not to treat the underlying cognitive decline. It’s an SSRI antidepressant that can help with depression, anxiety, irritability, and emotional lability often seen in people with dementia. By improving these emotional responses, it can enhance overall function and quality of life, even though the dementia itself continues to progress. It does not slow or halt the disease, nor does it improve memory or problem-solving abilities. That’s why the correct choice is that it will not improve dementia but can help control emotional responses.