Could Light Therapy Help Alleviate Alzheimer’s Symptoms?

A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that light therapy may significantly improve sleep quality, strengthen circadian rhythms, and reduce caregiver burden in Alzheimer’s patients.

Alzheimer’s not only impairs memory and cognition but also disrupts sleep and triggers behavioral symptoms like agitation, depression, and aggression. Photobiomodulation, a non-drug therapy that stimulates the brain’s sleep-regulating center, has gained interest as a potential solution. However, comprehensive reviews of its effectiveness and safety have been lacking—until now.

Analyzing Light Therapy’s Impact

To assess its benefits, researchers analyzed 15 high-quality randomized controlled trials conducted between 2005 and 2022 across seven countries. These studies, involving 598 participants, provided crucial insights into how light therapy affects Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.

Promising Findings from Meta-Analysis

Results showed that light therapy enhanced sleep efficiency, reinforced circadian rhythm stability, and reduced daytime restlessness. It also alleviated depression, decreased agitation, and eased caregiver stress.

Future Research and Considerations

While findings are encouraging, the researchers highlight the need for larger studies to further evaluate potential risks and long-term effects. They conclude that light therapy offers a promising, low-risk treatment option for managing Alzheimer’s symptoms.

“Light therapy improves sleep and psycho-behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients with relatively few side effects, making it a promising therapeutic approach,” the authors state.

Read Original Article: Scitechdaily

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