The global rise in age-related neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia, significantly impacts healthcare systems and quality of life. Mindfulness and medit...The global rise in age-related neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia, significantly impacts healthcare systems and quality of life. Mindfulness and meditation (MM), rooted in ancient philosophical traditions, are gaining attention as promising non-pharmacological treatments. This chapter examines the historical evolution, scientific foundations, therapeutic benefits, and existing challenges of mindfulness and meditation practices in promoting emotional and cognitive health among older adults. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, drawing from clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, neuroscientific studies, and literature reviews available in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Only peer-reviewed articles published in English, focusing specifically on mechanisms and therapeutic impacts of MM in aging populations, were included. Evidence supports MM's efficacy in enhancing cognitive function, emotional resilience, and overall mental health through mechanisms like neuroplasticity, increased gray matter density, improved autonomic balance, and reduced cortisol secretion. However, substantial challenges persist, including methodological variability, psychological risks such as anxiety or dissociative symptoms, and cultural sensitivity concerns, complicating broader implementation. Mindfulness and meditation are effective therapeutic approaches for addressing emotional and cognitive impairments associated with aging. Nevertheless, addressing methodological consistency, psychological safety, and cultural inclusivity remains critical. Further studies should emphasize methodological standardization, culturally adapted interventions, and technological innovations such as digital platforms and virtual reality to enhance MM's accessibility and effectiveness.
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is one of the best non-drug treatments for dementia patients that is based on evidence and can help them improve their cognitive and emotional performance. CST developed from reality o...Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is one of the best non-drug treatments for dementia patients that is based on evidence and can help them improve their cognitive and emotional performance. CST developed from reality orientation and social interaction models into a prevalent intervention that employs themed activities to stimulate memory, language, and attention functions, thereby improving participant engagement and quality of life. This paper elucidates the theoretical framework, session organisation, and therapeutic methodologies of CST. The research examines the broader implications of CST by assessing its efficacy for patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), vascular dementia, and Parkinson's disease. This section assesses the enduring efficacy of CST and examines its correlation with pharmacological interventions, while also exploring contemporary adaptations of CST, including individualised CST (iCST), maintenance CST (MCST), and virtual or technology-enhanced delivery methods. The chapter evaluates global implementation practices, cultural adaptation strategies, and clinical implementation challenges, particularly in resource-limited settings. The chapter illustrates the synergistic benefits of integrating Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) with pharmacological interventions and physical exercise regimens, while emphasising the necessity for research to attain universal and sustainable access for global populations.
The elderly population is rising in number, and along with it, the distribution of neuropsychiatric disorders is also increasing. These disorders pose a challenge in treating them effectively in a timely manner. As most...The elderly population is rising in number, and along with it, the distribution of neuropsychiatric disorders is also increasing. These disorders pose a challenge in treating them effectively in a timely manner. As most geriatric patients have comorbidities, the side effects of multiple medications, including drugs for neuropsychiatric disorders, cumulatively impair their well-being. To decrease the drug doses and hence the side effects, Non-Pharmacological Interventions (NPIs) pave a prominent pathway for the handling of patients. Cognitive stimulation therapy, mindfulness and meditation, music and art therapy, physical activity, social engagement, occupational therapy, reminiscence therapy, and technology-assisted interventions are the treatment modalities of neuropsychiatric disorders. In conjunction with the outcomes of these interventions on neuropsychiatric disorders, their limitations, challenges, and future directions are also explored. Though these evidence-based therapies are beneficial, optimal guidelines, a shortage of skilled therapy providers, long-term outcomes, and knowledge about the mechanism of action are inadequate. Finally, engaging in social interaction, daily exercise, and having a creative hobby, such as drawing and listening to music, delays the worsening of neuropsychiatric symptoms in the aging population. In this chapter, we aim to review the science behind NPIs for neuropsychiatric disorders extensively.
Neuropsychiatric disorders are chronic diseases present in the community and cause both personal and community burdens. Though therapeutically useful and beneficial, standard treatments and managements face some challeng...Neuropsychiatric disorders are chronic diseases present in the community and cause both personal and community burdens. Though therapeutically useful and beneficial, standard treatments and managements face some challenges such as social discrimination, concerns about treatments' side effects, and delay in the delivery of the healthcare services. To overcome these barriers, technology-assisted interventions have emerged and are nowadays increasingly used due to their potentials to offer accessible, personalized, and cost-efficient care in neuropsychiatric field. It is believed that these new advancements provide many advantages, such as accessibility, the direct follow-up of the patients, and the development of neuropsychiatric care in the low-income countries. In contrast, technology-assisted interventions in neuropsychiatric disorders encounter certain limitations, especially those related to ethical considerations such as patient privacy, equal access, and data security. This article reviews the role of digital health tools, neurostimulation techniques, and brain-computer interface in neuropsychiatric field. Also, it discusses the advantages and limitations of each technology.
This chapter explores the ethical landscape of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) in elderly adults for neuropsychiatric illnesses. As drug-free alternatives, NPIs ranging from cognitive and behavioral therapies to...This chapter explores the ethical landscape of non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) in elderly adults for neuropsychiatric illnesses. As drug-free alternatives, NPIs ranging from cognitive and behavioral therapies to lifestyle changes, sensory modalities, and AI-based devices, are becoming increasingly popular due to their therapeutic utility and reduced risk of side effects. However, their use raises pertinent ethical concerns of autonomy, informed consent, equity, privacy of information, and the role of artificial intelligence. The chapter addresses the impact of cognitive impairments on decision-making capacity and, therefore, the place of shared decision-making and supported consent. Structural access barriers, including geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic differences, are also addressed. Of particular interest are the ethical use of digital technology, where confidentiality of data, transparency, and impartiality of algorithms are crucial in upholding patient trust and dignity. By threading ethical critique throughout each area of intervention, the chapter invokes inclusive, patient-centered practice respectful of justice, beneficence, and respect for persons. The objective is to support responsible innovation in neuropsychiatric care that is continuous and participative, with stakeholders and ethical oversight at all stages.
With more cases of neuropsychiatric and chronic degenerative conditions worldwide, caregivers now play a vital role in healthcare. This chapter examines the different aspects of caregiving, including its medical, emotion...With more cases of neuropsychiatric and chronic degenerative conditions worldwide, caregivers now play a vital role in healthcare. This chapter examines the different aspects of caregiving, including its medical, emotional and ethical sides, in cases of dementia, Parkinson's disease, stroke and spinal muscular atrophy. Emphasizing a shift from viewing caregivers as ancillary figures to recognising them as a co-therapeutic agents, highlights their impact on patient outcomes, continuity of care, and quality of life. Evidence-based interventions that use cognitive behavioural therapy, teach mindfulness and include structured routines for caregivers are assessed for how they help reduce stress on caregivers and improve the stability of those receiving care. The chapter also points out how important it is to practice culturally sensitive and ethical care in any healthcare setting, especially when resources are limited. The best practices and guidelines from the United States are reviewed to demonstrate how support for caregivers can be woven throughout the care system globally. The chapter promotes the inclusion of caregiver well-being in regular healthcare plans, making it an essential part of care rather than a secondary issue.
This chapter aims to explore the theory, types, benefits, and practical applications of Reminiscence Therapy (RT) in elderly care. RT, developed by Robert Butler in the 1960s, uses past memories triggered by photos, musi...This chapter aims to explore the theory, types, benefits, and practical applications of Reminiscence Therapy (RT) in elderly care. RT, developed by Robert Butler in the 1960s, uses past memories triggered by photos, music, and familiar objects to improve cognitive, emotional, and social well-being in older adults. The chapter first explains the history and types of RT, including integrative, instrumental, and transmissive forms. It then details the social benefits, highlighting how group RT reduces isolation and strengthens relationships among seniors. Next, the chapter discusses cognitive and emotional improvements such as enhanced memory, reduced depression, and increased self-acceptance. The practical use of RT in care settings is explained, showing how it supports patients with dementia by slowing cognitive decline and preserving identity. Finally, ethical considerations and cultural adaptations are emphasized to ensure effective and respectful therapy. Overall, the chapter presents RT as a valuable, person-centered approach that improves the quality of life for older adults by harnessing the healing power of memory and social connection.
By 2025, the global elderly population is estimated to reach 2.1 billion, likely leading to an increased prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders. This brings attention to the drawbacks of pharmacological therapies, whic...By 2025, the global elderly population is estimated to reach 2.1 billion, likely leading to an increased prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders. This brings attention to the drawbacks of pharmacological therapies, which primarily manage symptoms and often entail significant side effects. Evidence suggests that physical activity (PA) represents a non-drug strategy that can positively influence cognitive and neurological health through various molecular pathways, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, and the regulation of neurotransmitters. Aerobic exercise, resistance training, and mind-body practices have been investigated to enhance cognitive functions, including memory, executive processing, and attention, while simultaneously mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. These benefits are linked with increased hippocampal volume, synaptic plasticity, and BDNF levels. This chapter aims to discuss the neurobiological processes responsible for the effects of PA while also promoting public health strategies that support healthy cognitive aging and alleviate the burden of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Neuropsychiatric diseases are a serious disorders affecting an individual's life, which can constitute a great problem to health care systems and a reduced level of activity in elderly. These disorders mainly include sch...Neuropsychiatric diseases are a serious disorders affecting an individual's life, which can constitute a great problem to health care systems and a reduced level of activity in elderly. These disorders mainly include schizophrenia (SCZ), anxiety, and depression. Art therapy (AT) as one of the non-pharmacological therapies seems to improve cognitive and behavioral symptoms in neuropsychiatric disorders in older adults but the exact neural mechanisms are not fully known. All these preventive methods contribute in decreasing psychological distress and promoting mental health in aging. Many different art media can be utilized by therapists for psychiatric and psychological conditions. AT, including music, painting, and architecture media as the most therapeutic processes can be served as a useful therapeutic option to alleviate disease related symptoms. Here, in this chapter we investigate the effectiveness of art therapies in age-related neuropsychiatric disorders adults. It's recommended for further research to stronger focus on processes and biological mechanisms underlying art related changes. We believe that this method has promoting potential in clinic on neuropsychiatric diseases to be further evaluated.
As individuals age, they undergo both biological and physiological changes that are apparent and expected. Another often overlooked aspect of senescence are the changes in cognition and behaviour. These are often misunde...As individuals age, they undergo both biological and physiological changes that are apparent and expected. Another often overlooked aspect of senescence are the changes in cognition and behaviour. These are often misunderstood or complicated with common neurodegenerative disorders found in the elderly. This chapter acts as an introduction into these cognitive-behavioural changes. There are a variety of methodologies currently employed in the investigation of these changes, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography, and animal studies. Novel methodologies are being deployed for the analysis of gut-flora interactions with the CNS and how they may impact behavioural changes as our microbiota changes in late-life. Multiple modulatory factors are at play as well, further complicating the multifaceted nature of ageing cognition differences. Sex and genetics are major factors that are associated with age-related behavioural changes. Gross structural and molecular changes in the CNS are also associated with pronounced changes in cognition. Low-grade chronic inflammation, epigenetics and infections also seem to be significant. Neurodegenerative diseases, whilst pathological, work in tandem with natural ageing and present age-related changes in behaviour. The most common changes are summarised and the expression of the previously discussed modulatory factors are presented.
Neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease present with increasing neurodegeneration and derangement. Genomic mutations and epigenetic changes are known to be p...Neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease present with increasing neurodegeneration and derangement. Genomic mutations and epigenetic changes are known to be part of their causation. This particular chapter discusses the key genetic factors like APP, SNCA, HTT, and C9orf72 mutations that influence the development and course of the disease. Furthermore, we examine epigenetic mechanisms-DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs-that regulate gene expression and contribute to neuronal susceptibility. The discussion also focuses on environmental and behavioral factors that affect the epigenome, highlighting gene-environment interactions. Advancements in omics technology and integrative studies have enhanced comprehension of biological pathways and uncovered novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The chapter therefore integrates epigenetic and genetic viewpoints to elucidate the intricate regulatory processes responsible for neurodegeneration and highlights potential avenues for early diagnosis, precision medicine, and therapeutic interventions aimed at remodeling disease pathways.
Precision medicine is on the verge of transforming the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), in response to the intricate interactions of genetic, epig...Precision medicine is on the verge of transforming the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), in response to the intricate interactions of genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors underlying disease heterogeneity. As the world's aging populations grow, with dementia cases expected to double by 2040 and the costs amounting to over €130 billion a year in Europe alone, there is an urgent need for novel strategies to stem the socioeconomic costs of NDDs. Conventional "one-drug-fits-all" strategies that depend on late-stage symptom treatment are progressively insufficient for disorders that are marked by heterogeneous molecular pathways and unpredictable clinical courses. Recent improvements in artificial intelligence (AI), multi-omics integration, and biomarker research now allow patients to be stratified into subpopulations following their genetic risk profiles, neuroimaging signatures, and fluid biomarkers (e.g., amyloid-beta, tau, α-synuclein), enabling early diagnosis and focused treatments. For example, artificial intelligence platforms such as the IHI-PROMINENT project are creating forecasting algorithms to chart disease progression and tailor treatment outcomes, and gene therapy and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) address precise mutations in familial AD and PD. These advances are supported by pharmacogenomics, which individualizes drug regimens according to metabolic profiles to reduce side effects and maximize efficacy. Still, translating these advances into practice has major barriers to overcome, such as large-scale biomarker validation, multi-omics standardization, and incorporating real-world evidence from digital health technologies. Aging populations only add complexity to this environment, as comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases interact with neurodegenerative pathways, requiring system-based, holistic approaches to care. Equity is still a key challenge: differences in access to sophisticated diagnostics (e.g., PET scans, CSF examination) and expensive therapies (e.g., monoclonal antibodies, CAR-T cell therapy) threaten to worsen global health disparities. In retaliation, initiatives such as the JPND research paradigm advance remote clinical trials and telemedicine platforms for the diverse community in decentralized settings, and policies target reducing financial disincentives through risk-sharing strategies and public-private partnerships. Precision medicine in the treatment of NDDs depends on an integrated network among academia, clinics, and industry, by taking advantage of communal biobanks and AI-enabled big data analysis, for refining the drug development process and validating new targets, e.g., neuroinflammatory signaling and gut-brain axis dysfunction. Innovations, like CRISPR-mediated editing and ambient neuroimaging, have innate or potential power to personalize treatment by identifying early-stage and even pre-symptomatic patients and modulating one's lifestyle in light of genetic risk. However ethical considerations around data privacy, algorithmic bias, and informed consent for Sustained therapeutic interventions over a lifetime should guide, not lag, the transformation. With the drive toward preventive rather than delayed care, precision medicine represents a revolutionary paradigm shift in health care, and a possibility to convert NDDs from devastatingly fatal diagnoses to easily managed chronic diseases and render equitable access to innovations possible for the masses. Success will require consistent investment in translational studies, interdisciplinary training, and global regulatory harmonization to translate the promise of precision medicine into tangible improvements in the quality of life for the millions of individuals afflicted with neurodegenerative disorders.
As neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's continue to rise globally, the need for cross-border collaboration in research and treatment has never been more critical. This chapter explores promi...As neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's continue to rise globally, the need for cross-border collaboration in research and treatment has never been more critical. This chapter explores prominent global case studies and collaborative frameworks that exemplify how united efforts are transforming the landscape of NDD research. By pooling expertise, data, and resources, international initiatives are accelerating discoveries in early diagnosis, biomarker identification, and personalized therapies. Highlighting landmark consortia such as the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) (n.d.), Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), and emerging multi-omics collaborations, the chapter illustrates how these partnerships overcome the complexity and heterogeneity of NDDs. It delves into technological innovations like artificial intelligence, blockchain data sharing, and real-time patient monitoring, which empower researchers and clinicians to connect genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors in a holistic manner. Ethical considerations and data privacy frameworks are underscored as pivotal to fostering trust among participants and bridging disparities between regions with varying access to precision medicine. The chapter also sheds light on successful public-private partnerships and patient-focused global networks that place individuals at the center of discovery and care. Challenges such as standardizing protocols across countries, navigating legal frameworks, and securing sustainable funding are discussed alongside future directions for expanding collaborative reach. Ultimately, this comprehensive overview conveys the unprecedented promise held by global cooperation in combating neurodegenerative diseases-offering hope for improved diagnostics, innovative treatments, and enhanced quality of life for millions worldwide.
Digital health technologies, including patient portals, wearables, telemedicine, and AI-driven tools, are transforming patient-centered care (PCC) by improving engagement, self-management, and accessibility. Integrated p...Digital health technologies, including patient portals, wearables, telemedicine, and AI-driven tools, are transforming patient-centered care (PCC) by improving engagement, self-management, and accessibility. Integrated personal health records (PHRs) enhance data sharing, adherence, and chronic disease management, yet challenges like interoperability, privacy, and the digital divide remain. Emerging innovations-AI chatbots, digital therapeutics, and intelligent digital twins (IDTs)-leverage IoT and machine learning to enable predictive, personalized care. For example, IDTs combine wearable and EHR data to simulate real-time health states, optimizing interventions for conditions like heart failure. Similarly, text-based therapy and CBT apps offer scalable mental health support with efficacy comparable to traditional methods. Despite their potential, barriers such as algorithmic bias, health literacy gaps, and inadequate co-design hinder equitable adoption. Participatory approaches involving patients and providers are essential to developing inclusive, user-centered solutions. Future research must prioritize rigorous, evidence-based evaluations to ensure scalability, security, and long-term effectiveness. By addressing these challenges, digital health can fulfill its promise of accessible, high-quality PCC.
Pharmacogenomics and CRISPR-based treatments are two areas of precision medicine that are advancing together. Pharmacogenomics involves studying how differences in someone's genes can change the effect of medications on...Pharmacogenomics and CRISPR-based treatments are two areas of precision medicine that are advancing together. Pharmacogenomics involves studying how differences in someone's genes can change the effect of medications on them. Pharmacogenomics helps reduce adverse reactions to drugs and improve healing by choosing and measuring drugs according to a patient's genetic information. Additionally, CRISPR-Cas systems now serve as leading genome editing tools that allow precise alterations at given points of the genome. CRISPR technology's use in pharmacogenomics creates new opportunities for modifying gene expression, fixing harmful mutations, and creating innovative treatment approaches. A more proactive approach to illness treatment is supported by this synergy, in which genetic factors serve as both direct targets for intervention and a basis for medication selection. This chapter examines the theoretical and practical frameworks that link CRISPR-based treatments with pharmacogenomics, emphasizing recent uses in pharmacoresistance, cancer, and monogenic diseases. To guarantee safe and fair deployment, it also covers the ethical, legal, and technical issues that need to be resolved. When combined, these technologies hold the potential to revolutionize medicine by facilitating individualized and curative drugs.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neuron loss, α-synuclein aggregation, and oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. These contribute to motor sympto...Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neuron loss, α-synuclein aggregation, and oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. These contribute to motor symptoms like bradykinesia, tremor, rigidity, and postural instability, alongside non-motor issues such as cognitive decline and autonomic dysfunction. With rising global prevalence, especially in aging populations, understanding PD's complex pathophysiology is essential for advancing effective therapeutic strategies. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of Parkinson's disease, covering its demographic trends, molecular mechanisms, symptoms, and current pharmacological treatments, including their mechanisms, classifications, benefits, and side effects. The central focus is on the emerging shift from standard symptomatic care to personalized, precision-based treatment strategies. These include gene-targeted therapies like RNA interference and CRISPR-Cas9, mitochondrial-based approaches, and stem cell innovations such as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Pharmacogenetic profiling and biomarker-based interventions further support individualized therapeutic plans by predicting drug responses and tracking disease progression. This chapter explores patient-centric models like personalized neurorehabilitation, DBS, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, alongside advanced technologies such as AI, VR, AR, and wearable devices that enhance treatment, symptom monitoring, and real-time feedback through mobile applications. Lifestyle adaptations, including precision nutrition and customized exercise regimens, are highlighted as key components of comprehensive care. This chapter highlights a personalized, multi-dimensional approach to Parkinson's disease management, integrating molecular, technological, and lifestyle strategies to both ease symptoms and modify disease progression.
Despite extensive research, Alzheimer's disease (AD) a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, neuronal loss, and the build-up of amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles continues to lack effecti...Despite extensive research, Alzheimer's disease (AD) a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, neuronal loss, and the build-up of amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles continues to lack effective treatments. Precision medicine presents a promising shift by customizing interventions to an individual's genetic, molecular, and lifestyle profile. This chapter explores key advancements in precision therapeutics for AD, including biomarker-driven therapies, pharmacogenomics, and targeted disease-modifying agents such as monoclonal antibodies. Recent innovations, including RNA-based therapeutics, stem cell approaches, and CRISPR-mediated gene editing, are also discussed. While precision medicine holds immense promise, challenges in clinical translation, patient stratification, and regulatory pathways must be addressed. By bridging cutting-edge research with clinical applications, this chapter provides insights into the evolving landscape of individualized treatment strategies for AD.
Advances in neuroimaging are revolutionizing the landscape of precision neurology by enabling high-resolution, multimodal visualization of brain structure, function, and pathology. As traditional, symptom-based framework...Advances in neuroimaging are revolutionizing the landscape of precision neurology by enabling high-resolution, multimodal visualization of brain structure, function, and pathology. As traditional, symptom-based frameworks fall short in capturing the biological complexity of neurodegenerative diseases, imaging modalities such as structural MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, functional MRI, PET, and hybrid PET/MRI have emerged as essential tools for early diagnosis, patient stratification, and therapeutic monitoring. These technologies not only reveal hallmark features like hippocampal atrophy and disrupted neural networks but also uncover molecular signatures such as amyloid and tau deposition, synaptic density, and neuroinflammation. Integration with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) further enhances diagnostic precision by decoding subtle imaging patterns, facilitating subtype classification, and predicting disease progression. Despite transformative progress, disparities in access and implementation remain a critical challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of neuroimaging modalities, their diagnostic and prognostic relevance across major neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, ALS, and frontotemporal dementia and the evolving role of hybrid platforms and AI integration in shaping the future of individualized neurological care.