Imagine treating dementia like a puzzle and non-pharmacological therapies (NPTs) are the different pieces you can use to solve it. Researchers have been exploring various NPTs such as photobiomodulation (PBM), enriched environment (EE), exercise therapy (ET), computerized cognitive training (CCT), and cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) to improve cognitive function in patients with dementia. To assess their effectiveness, a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. The results revealed that PBM, EE, ET, and CST were all significantly effective in improving dementia. However, CCT did not show a significant difference. Among the NPTs, PBM showed the most promise as a potential game-changer for dementia treatment. Interestingly, PBM also outperformed CST in enhancing cognitive function. This study highlights the tremendous potential of NPTs as cognitive enhancers for individuals with dementia, with PBM leading the way. If you’re curious to learn more about this research and its implications, dive into the full article!
ObjectiveNon-pharmacological therapies (NPTs) have received increasing attention from researchers as a category of treatment to improve cognitive impairment in patients with dementia because of their fewer side effects. In this study, photobiomodulation (PBM), enriched environment (EE), exercise therapy (ET), computerized cognitive training (CCT), and cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) were selected to compare the effects of NPTs that improve dementia by quantifying information from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).MethodsWe did a systematic review and network meta-analysis. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, Wan Fang Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Web of Science, and VIP Database from the time of database creation to 1 August 2022. Two investigators independently screened the literature, extracted information, and assessed the RCTs’ quality with the Cochrane Collaboration Network Risk of Bias 2.0. Network meta-analysis was performed using R language (X64 version 4.1.3) and STATA 17.0.ResultsWe identified 1,268 citations and of these included 38 trials comprising 3,412 participants. For improving dementia, the results of the network meta-analysis showed that compared with the control group (CON), PBM (SMD = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.43–1.37), EE (SMD = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.02–1.41), ET (SMD = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.16–0.68), and CST (SMD = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.11–0.62) were significantly different (P < 0.05); There was no significant difference in CCT (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI: −0.07–0.88) (P > 0.05). The ranked results showed that PBM has more potential to be the best intervention (P = 0.90). In addition, there was a significant difference between PBM and CST in improving cognitive function (SMD = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.00; 1.08, P < 0.05).ConclusionIn this study, NPTs have excellent potential to improve cognition in people with dementia, and PBM may have more significant benefits in improving cognition than the other four NPTs.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022363746.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.