Cognitive Decline: Current Intervention Strategies and Integrative Therapeutic Approaches for Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents a pressing global health challenge, with an anticipated surge in diagnoses over the next two decades. This progressive neurodegenerative disorder unfolds gradually, with observable symptoms emerging after two decades of imperceptible brain changes. While traditional therapeutic approaches, such as medication and cognitive therapy, remain standard in AD management, their limitations prompt exploration into novel integrative therapeutic approaches. Recent advancements in AD research focus on entraining gamma waves through innovative methods, such as light flickering and electromagnetic fields (EMF) stimulation. Flickering light stimulation (FLS) at 40 Hz has demonstrated significant reductions in AD pathologies in both mice and humans, providing improved cognitive functioning. Additionally, recent experiments have demonstrated that APOE mutations in mouse models substantially reduce tau pathologies, with microglial modulation playing a crucial role. EMFs have also been demonstrated to modulate microglia. The exploration of EMFs as a therapeutic approach is gaining significance, as many recent studies have showcased their potential to influence microglial responses. Th article concludes by speculating on the future directions of AD research, emphasizing the importance of ongoing efforts in understanding the complexities of AD pathogenesis through a holistic approach and developing interventions that hold promise for improved patient outcomes.

Keywords

• Alzheimer’s disease
• electromagnetic fields (EMF)
• gamma oscillations
• flickering light stimulation (FLS)
• cognitive functioning