Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and degenerative brain disorder that affects a person’s memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, a syndrome characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities that interfere with daily activities.

Brain cells and the neurons that link them to one another are broken down and destroyed. This impairment brings on a deterioration in memory, behavior, and mental capacity. There are currently no known medications that can slow or stop the development of this condition, according to science. Additionally, no one knows how to stop Alzheimer’s from developing.

The goal of treatment is to improve the quality of life for such patients. Doctors deal with the disease’s treatable symptoms. Both conventional and alternative therapies can be used to achieve this.

Dementia can be treated in different ways besides taking medication. However, it’s critical to understand which complementary therapies are supported by research. 

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is named after Alois Alzheimer, a German neuropathologist who first described the condition in 1906. It is characterized by the formation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, which interferes with the normal functioning of brain cells and leads to their destruction over time.

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can vary, but they typically include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language and communication, and changes in personality and behavior. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty performing routine tasks such as dressing and grooming and eventually become entirely dependent on others for care.

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are medications that can help manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Additionally, lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, such as exercise, a healthy diet, and mental stimulation.

Alternative Treatments For Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and progressive neurological disorder. While there is no cure for the disease, alternative treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s.

These alternative treatments include the following.

Music Therapy

Music therapy has been found to help people with Alzheimer’s disease improve their mood, reduce agitation, and increase their level of socialization. It involves listening to music, playing instruments, and singing songs, and it can be done in group or individual settings.

Music therapy is a non-pharmacological approach that uses music to improve individuals’ physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. It is beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease, as it can help to improve mood, reduce agitation, and increase socialization. Music can elicit memories and emotions, even in people with advanced Alzheimer’s disease, and can be a powerful tool for communication and connection. 

Light Therapy

The area of the brain responsible for controlling the circadian rhythm, which tells the body when to sleep and wake up, is impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. Your sleep and wake cycle may be disturbed by Alzheimer’s disease. Some people have trouble falling asleep, which raises the possibility of nocturnal stumbling. Red light therapy might be helpful.

According to studies, light therapy can help the sleep-wake cycle return to balance. Some Alzheimer’s disease patients with morning bright light therapy reported better nocturnal sleep patterns. Additionally, it improved daytime alertness and decreased agitation at night. Here’s how red light may help.

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity and improve blood flow. There is some evidence to suggest that red light therapy may be beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease is the buildup of beta-amyloid protein in the brain, which can cause inflammation and damage to brain cells. Red light therapy has been found to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which may help slow down the disease’s progression.

In addition, red light therapy has been found to improve cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment, a condition often preceding Alzheimer’s disease. Red light therapy improves blood flow and oxygenation in the brain, enhancing cognitive function.

Art Therapy

Art therapy can help people with Alzheimer’s to express their emotions and communicate, which can be difficult as the disease progresses. It involves creating art, such as painting or drawing, and can help people to maintain their cognitive abilities and engage in a meaningful activities.

Pet Therapy

Pet therapy involves spending time with animals, such as dogs, cats, or birds, and has been found to reduce stress and anxiety and improve the mood of people with Alzheimer’s disease. It can also provide a sense of comfort and companionship.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy that uses essential oils to improve physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are used for their therapeutic properties. Aromatherapy is beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease, as it can help to reduce agitation, anxiety, and depression and improve sleep and cognitive function.

Some of the most commonly used essential oils for Alzheimer’s disease include lavender, lemon balm, peppermint, rosemary, and sage. Lavender, in particular, is effective in reducing agitation and improving sleep in people with Alzheimer’s.

Aromatherapy can be done through inhalation or topical application of essential oils. Inhalation can be done through a diffuser, which releases the essential oils into the air, or through direct inhalation of the oils. The topical application involves applying essential oils to the skin, usually diluted, through massage or a bath.

While aromatherapy is generally safe, it is important to use caution when using essential oils, as some can cause allergic reactions or interact with medication. Using high-quality essential oils from reputable sources is also important, as some may be adulterated or contain contaminants.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical treatment that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points of the body. It has been found to reduce anxiety, depression, and insomnia in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Coconut Oil

A fatty acid called caprylic acid is present in refined coconut oil. The body converts caprylic acid into a protein ketone. Ketasyn, a medication, uses a comparable protein.

According to several studies, those who took Ketasyn showed less cognitive deterioration and improved memory function. Some people use coconut oil as a less expensive alternative to medications containing Ketasyn.

Fatty Acids Omega-3

Treatment for Alzheimer’s may benefit from omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers discovered that frequent use of omega-3 fatty acids prevented cognitive decline in one studyTrusted Source. It’s crucial to remember that this research was done on animals, not people.

Eating fish, nuts, and some oils can help you increase the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

Coral Calcium

Most people consume adequate calcium as part of a healthy diet. However, some people recommend coral calcium as an Alzheimer’s disease treatment. Seashells and marine life are the sources of coral calcium. This implies that traces of other minerals may be present in the calcium supplement. This makes it more advantageous than other calcium sources.

There is no evidence that coral calcium effectively treats Alzheimer’s disease. Companies that advertise coral calcium as a natural cure for Alzheimer’s disease have been named in a formal complaint by the Federal Trade Commission.

It is important to note that while these alternative treatments may provide some relief and improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s disease, they should not replace medical treatment or medication prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, discussing any alternative treatments with a healthcare professional before starting them is essential, as some may interact with medication or have potential side effects.

FAQ

What are some all-natural Alzheimer’s treatments?

An increasing body of research indicates that maintaining a balanced diet may reduce the incidence of dementia and cognitive decline. None of the foods, drinks, ingredients, vitamins, or supplements, however, are effective in preventing, treating, or curing Alzheimer’s disease or in improving cognitive performance or brain health.

Which Alzheimer’s non-drug treatment works the best?

These non-drug interventions consist of memory and orientation exercises, art therapy, music therapy, light therapy, aromatherapy, animal contact, and family caregiver education. However, assessing the value of these popular therapies can be challenging. A number of them have undergone extensive research.

Bottom Line

Alternative therapies are not yet supported by research as a treatment for AD. Your treatment strategy, however, is an individual decision.

If any of these alternative therapies intrigue you, discuss them with your doctor. Never use alternative therapies without first talking to your doctor. By using any of the supplements mentioned above with prescription drugs, you risk experiencing severe drug interactions.