Non-Pharmacologic Alternatives in the Management of Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease, having complex symptoms ranging from a decline in cognitive function to dementia. This paper aims to present different nonpharmacologic methods used in the management of Alzheimer’s disease as evidenced in published studies. As there is no single pathogenesis of the disease, management addresses several symptoms presented. This makes drug development challenging, and to date, there is no single effective agent to prevent or cure the disease, and management is complex. Non-pharmacologic means have been explored to possibly aid in alleviating symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Physical activities such as yoga and exercise have shown promising results in improving cognitive function. With studies showing physical inactivity to be contributory to the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, more and more research is being done to prove the beneficial gains of exercise in prevention and delay of progression of the disease. Meditation, mental imagery, music and creative expression are fun and relaxing activities with benefits for the mind. These are cost-effective means of interventions that may not only address the disease itself but other aspects of the person’s well-being as well. Massage and aromatherapy are physically soothing, which release tension and calm the mind. Acupuncture has documented health benefits as it is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. These nonpharmacologic alternatives to the management of Alzheimer’s disease have been presented and practised. To increase their acceptability and to successfully integrate them into clinical practice as complementary management, more extensive evidence-based studies need to be conducted.

Keywords

• yoga and exercise
• mental imagery
• meditation
• massage and aromatherapy