Effects of non-pharmacological therapy on normal ageing and on cognitive decline: reflections on treatment objectives.

INTRODUCTION Non-pharmacological therapies for normal ageing and dementia are a set of treatment programmes intended to improve the performance of cognitive processes, improve emotional well-being, promote independence in daily life activities, and ultimately increase patients' quality of life. METHODS We applied a battery of tests assessing four major domains (general mental state, emotional well-being, quality of life, and daily life activities) to a sample of 317 adults older than 64 (240 with normal ageing and 77 with cognitive impairment). They were then assigned either to non-pharmacological therapy groups according to their abilities or to other non-specific activities. Progress was assessed 9 months later using the same test battery. RESULTS The results show a general improvement in mental state in the group with normal ageing and absence of disease progression in the group with pathological ageing. In both groups, emotional well-being (anxiety and depression) and self-identified quality of life both benefited from non-pharmacological therapy. However, other aspects commonly included among the therapeutic targets did not seem to improve, including independence in daily life activities. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that non-pharmacological therapy in ageing patients can produce positive results. It must be stressed that benefits are greater in individuals with cognitive impairment, although generalising use of this therapy could prove to be an excellent primary programme for preventing cognitive and emotional disorders.