Can Rhythmic Sensory Stimulation Decrease Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer's Disease?: A Clinical Case Study

Authors

  • Amy Clements-Cortes University of Toronto, Music and Health Research Collaboratory, Baycrest Centre
  • Lee Bartel
  • Heidi Ahonen
  • Morris Freedman
  • Michael Evans
  • David Tang-Wai

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47513/mmd.v9i3.565

Abstract

Background/Objectives: To present Rhythmic Sensory Stimulation (RSS) as a potential new treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Design: Longitudinal case study over a three year period.

Setting: RSS was provided both in a long-term care/research facility and in-home.

Participant:  One 92 year old female with AD.

Intervention: Treatments consisted of RSS resulting in gamma frequency entrainment, provided by two different treatment devices over three years.

Measurements: Quantitative and qualitative measures were used including: MMSE, SLUMS, interviews, observation notes and a participant question sheet.

Results: MMSE scores since diagnosis three years earlier, as well as cognition, clarity, and awareness were reported by the case’s husband to have remained unchanged.

Conclusion: Although further research is warranted, this case suggests that RSS has potential to help maintain cognition in AD. 

References

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; 52(2): 651-60. doi:10.3233/JAD-160081

Published

2017-07-28

Issue

Section

Clinical Reports