Dementia and sound stimulation

June 25th, 2024

Sound stimulation could give dementia patients a much-needed good night’s sleep – sleep disturbance is a common problem for approximately half of people suffering from dementia. Researchers have revealed that they can influence brain waves with sound, the type of brainwave associated with memory and perception changes. Sleep is a key factor in managing dementia.

Using sound is a powerful, non-invasive approach to stimulating brain waves

A recent study conducted by a research team from the UK University of Surrey in conjunction with the UK Dementia Research Institute Centre for Care Research & Technology has shown that changes to Alpha rhythms in the brain are seen in those suffering from cognitive decline and dementia. Alpha rhythms are types of brain wave associated with memory and perception.

Alpha Closed Loop Auditory Stimulation

In experiments conducted in the study, a new brain modulation technique called “Alpha Closed Loop Auditory Stimulation” (aCLAS) was used to time the sounds of “pink noise” to the precise rhythm of alpha rhythms in the brain.

Participants were monitored continuously in real time using measurements of electrical activity from the brain to monitor the effects of these bursts of pink noise on alpha rhythms. Initial findings showed that alpha rhythms changed depending on the phase at which the sound was played, either faster or slower.

Furthermore, as participants fell asleep, it was noted that certain sounds at a particular phase stopped them from falling into deeper stages of sleep.

We already know that music can have a positive effect on dementia patients but this latest information really does confirm the benefits and value of sound for medical conditions. It is evident from this research and subsequent findings that Alpha rhythms can be influenced with sound, leading to the next step in research which will look at how to modify alpha waves to enhance sleep, which is turn is beneficial in prolonging cognition in dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.

Scientists hope to find ways of manipulating oscillations (rhythms) to create tools for treatment applications because they know oscillations are slower in diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

A senior author of the study, Dr Ines Violant who is a lecturer in Psychological Neuroscience at the University of Surrey explained, “Alpha oscillations are a defining characteristic of our brain’s electrical activity, but we still do not fully understand their role in shaping fundamental brain functions. Sound is a powerful, non-invasive approach to stimulate certain oscillations with the brain.”

Transforming the landscape of dementia

Advances in technology have revolutionised dementia care, offering innovative solutions to support patients, caregivers and healthcare providers worldwide. Raised awareness, understanding, and improved accessibility have helped to reduce the stigma around dementia.

For the physical, emotional, psychosocial and practical challenges associated with dementia, support groups and communities are widely available. Dementia, cognitive, occupational, music, art and reminiscence therapy are successful treatments. Investments, research, advancements in pharmacotherapy, innovations and collaborations will continue to grow and, hopefully, one day, there will be a cure for all forms of dementia. Patients, family, friends and caregivers deserve to live a fulfilling life. The support and experts are available to people transforming the landscape of dementia.

There are many types of dementia

Dementia is the loss of the ability to think, remember and reason. People with dementia have difficulty completing everyday tasks, and symptoms worsen over time. Dementia is not a specific disease. It happens when nerve cells in the brain stop working properly. There are many types of dementia – Alzheimer’s, frontotemporal, Lewy body and vascular dementia. Sometimes, the changes in the brain can be caused by more than one type.

Dementia is the biggest killer of the 21st century

Dementia is one of the greatest challenges to society and health providers. It is the biggest killer of the 21st century. Statistics reveal that 1 in 3 people will develop dementia and it is estimated that one-third of people are living with dementia without knowing.

The cause of dementia is unknown, it’s a degenerative and complicated condition with no cure. Diagnosis relies on cognitive tests and brain scans to measure the level of key proteins that build up in the brain. Early accurate diagnosis will help to manage it and plan for the future. Dementia signs to look for are difficulty in understanding or expressing thoughts, memory loss, confusion, getting lost in familiar places and losing balance.

Being diagnosed with dementia can be traumatic and scary. There is the fear of the unknown, a feeling that life is over and the depressing realisation that you will have to depend on people. Being a dementia caregiver for a loved one can be difficult but there are a growing number of dementia services and support groups helping to transform the landscape of dementia.

Our Nature’s Marvel Central Nervous System Bioregulator normalises the brain and central nervous system. It helps patients with brain injuries and diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, depression, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Helpful resources

Alzheimer’s Research UK

https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/need-to-know-more/support-for-carers/

Alzheimer’s Society

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

Caring for someone with dementia at home

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/care/helping-a-loved-one/caring-dementia/

Dementia UK

https://www.dementiauk.org/

Alzheimer’s Association

https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/programs-support#:~:text=Call%20the%20Alzheimer’s%20Association%2024,crisis%20assistance%3B%20and%20emotional%20support.

Alzheimer’s.gov