Currently, available mainstream approaches used to treat mild cognitive
impairment (MCI) and dementia are limited. In view of the high prevalence rate of
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other forms of dementia and the enormous social and
financial burden associated with dementia on a global scale, developing more effective
and more cost-effective ways to treat MCI and dementia is an urgent priority. This
chapter reviews research findings on promising non-pharmaceutical approaches being
investigated for their potential clinical applications in treating symptoms of cognitive
impairment and behavioral dysregulation associated with dementia, reducing the risk of
developing dementia, and slowing rate of progression of cognitive decline in
individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or dementia. Non-pharmaceutical
treatment approaches covered include diet, exercise, single and compound herbal
formulas used in Asian medicine, herbals used in Western countries, select other
natural products including dehydroepiandrosterone, idebenone, acetyl-L-carnitine,
alpha lipoic acid, phosphatidylserine and phosphatidic acid, select vitamins, nPUFAs
and probiotics. Other non-pharmaceutical modalities reviewed include chelating
agents; non-invasive brain stimulation techniques employing weak electrical current,
sound and light; music therapy; cognitive training; electroencephalography (EEG)
biofeedback; multi-modal interventions; Wander gardens; sensory stimulation
interventions; massage, mindfulness, and energetic therapies (Healing Touch,
Therapeutic Touch, taichi and qigong). Although select natural products are supported
by compelling research evidence, most modalities reviewed in this chapter are
supported by limited findings. Large prospective placebo-controlled studies are needed
to further elucidate mechanisms of action, verify the efficacy of the various nonpharmaceutical
modalities, and identify safe and appropriate treatment protocols for
MCI and dementia.
Keywords: Dementia, Healing Touch and Therapeutic Touch, Lifestyle Changes,
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Multi-Modal Interventions, Natural Products,
Non-Pharmaceutical Treatment, Taichi and Qigong.
