Beyond Medication: Emerging Non-Pharmacological Treatments of People with Dementia

Background:Dementia represents a major global public health challenge, affecting over 55 million people worldwide and projected to increase substantially in the coming decades (World Health Organization, 2021). While pharmacological therapies—such as cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists—provide modest symptomatic benefits, they do not halt disease progression and may be associated with adverse effects (Birks & Harvey, 2018). Consequently, interest in non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) has grown, reflecting a shift toward holistic, person-centered models of care. NPIs encompass a broad set of approaches, including cognitive stimulation therapies, physical activity programs, sensory-based interventions, music therapy, psychosocial interventions, digital/technological solutions (e.g., VR, assistive robotics), nutrition, and environmental modifications. These interventions aim to enhance quality of life, support functional independence, mitigate behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and reduce caregiver burden (Livingston et al., 2020). Emerging evidence suggests that multimodal NPIs may have synergistic effects on cognitive, emotional, and social functioning, potentially influencing neuroplasticity and resilience (Ngandu et al., 2015). Given the growing emphasis on non-pharmacological approaches in international guidelines (NICE, 2018; WHO, 2017), there is a need for a systematic investigation of emerging NPIs, their mechanisms, implementation challenges, and their role in integrated dementia care pathways.Goal: This Research Topic aims to critically examine the landscape of emerging non-pharmacological treatments for people with dementia, evaluating their theoretical foundations, empirical evidence, and practical relevance. Our goal relies on: 1. Identify and categorize innovative NPIs currently being developed or implemented.2. Assess the effectiveness, feasibility, and safety profiles of these interventions.3. Explore mechanisms of action and potential synergistic effects within multimodal treatment models.4. Compare NPIs with conventional pharmacological approaches in terms of outcomes and person-centered benefits.5. Inform clinical practice and policy by synthesizing evidence-based recommendations for integrating NPIs into dementia care.Scope: We invite submissions that explore the role of non-pharmacological treatments aimed at people diagnosed with any major subtype of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Specific themes of interest include, but are not limited to:● Cognitive and neuropsychological interventions (e.g., cognitive stimulation therapy, computerized cognitive training)● Psychosocial interventions (e.g., reminiscence therapy, caregiver-mediated programs)● Sensory-based therapies (e.g., music therapy, multisensory stimulation, aromatherapy)● Lifestyle interventions (e.g., physical activity, nutrition)● Environmental and architectural design strategiesOutcomes considered: cognitive functioning, emotional well-being, behavioral and BPSD symptoms, functional independence, quality of life, caregiver burden, and cost-effectiveness. Topic editors: Nathan M D'Cunha, Raffaele Nappo Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77381/beyond-medication-emerging-non-pharmacological-treatments-of-people-with-dementia