Patient discussions
Although there is no literature on the positive effects of healthy living on Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) patients, it is recommended that patients continue to participate in exercise programmes appropriate to their age and physical condition. This may be especially helpful to asymptomatic patients with genetic CJD, as it is suggested that lifestyle may have an influence on the age of onset. It is also encouraged that these patients participate in activities that reduce stress and maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
Given the rapid progression of CJD, patients should remain in close contact with physicians to co-ordinate care. Seeking counselling to help cope with the emotional impact of this disease is highly recommended. Families should also draw up advance directives early on to ensure that the patient's wishes are carried out.
University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Memory and Aging Center. Opens in new window
The National Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Research and Surveillance Unit Opens in new window
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