The Impact of Meditation on the Cognitive Functions of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, which has no cure and, also, effective therapies to prevent or slow the progression of AD remain elusive. Thus, it is necessary to find another way to treat this disease Objective: Investigate the impact of meditation on the cognitive function of patients with AD. Methods: In April 2021, a systematic review was carried out on MEDLINE using the descriptors: “Meditation” and “Alzheimer Disease” and their variations. Studies published in the last 10 years and in English were included. Results: Of the 40 articles found, four are part of this review. It was showed that meditation generates improvements in memory as it increases cerebral blood flow, stabilizes synapses and elevates important neurotransmitters. Aligned, it can improve sleep quality and retrospective memory function. Furthermore, daily practices help in neuropsychological conditions and generate beneficial changes in brain structure and function. Finally, it provokes changes in the brain network, such as the increased power of the theta band, involved in memory processes. Conclusion: The results imply a positive effect of meditation on patients with AD. However, further research is needed to confirm the validity of the results.