NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL THERAPIES IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects millions of people worldwide, compromising cognitive functions and functional independence. Although pharmacological treatments are widely used, non-pharmacological therapies have gained attention for their complementary benefits in improving patients' quality of life and managing behavioral and psychological symptoms. Objective: The objective of this integrative review was to analyze the scientific evidence on the impact of non-pharmacological therapies on the quality of life and behavioral and cognitive symptoms of patients with dementia. Methodology: The review was conducted based on a search in the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane and Lilacs databases, encompassing studies published between 2010 and 2023. Clinical trials, cohort studies and systematic reviews that investigated non-pharmacological interventions, such as music therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, and reminiscence therapies in patients with dementia, were included. The analysis was based on a narrative synthesis of the results. Results and Discussion: Twenty-eight studies were selected, which demonstrated that non-pharmacological therapies, such as cognitive stimulation and music therapy, contributed to the improvement of memory, attention and executive function in patients with mild to moderate dementia. In addition, interventions such as physical exercise and occupational therapy showed benefits in mobility and functional skills. There was also a significant reduction in symptoms of agitation, anxiety and depression. These therapies, in conjunction with conventional treatments, can provide a more holistic management of dementia, helping to mitigate cognitive decline and improve emotional well-being. Conclusion: Non-pharmacological therapies play an essential role in the treatment of patients with dementia, offering a complementary approach that improves quality of life and alleviates behavioral and psychological symptoms. The integration of these interventions into routine care should be encouraged by health professionals to promote more effective and humanized management of the disease.