Non-pharmacologic Therapies: A Different Approach to AD

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other forms of neurodegenerative dementia are of growing concern in the medical field due to their increased prevalence in the elderly. The pharmacological interventions currently available have limited ability to improve dementia symptoms (cognition, function, behavioral) and quality of life (QoL). Therefore, there has been a growing interest in non-pharmacologic ap proaches, alone or in combination, with pharmacotherapy. Several therapies have been suggested to help prevent or manage AD, and those discussed in this article include: • cognitive-based therapies; • psychosocial therapies; • movement therapy; and • sensorial therapy. These therapies may be implemented in a variety of settings, ranging from the patient’s own home to institutions, as well as individually or in a group setting. However, the rationale for their use and efficacy is still an issue. Thus, this paper presents a brief evidence-based review of the efficacy of non-pharmacologic interventions in dementia prevention and management in cognitively impaired and healthy older adults.