Photobiomodulation
A Canadian-based biotech company, Vielight, has developed a new headset which aims to stop, or even reverse, some of the symptoms of dementia.
The headset, known as the Neuro RX Gamma, works by transmitting near-infrared light to the brain through the skull and nostril. This technique is called ‘photobiomodulation’, or the use of light to alter biological processes. In this case, the aim is to use light to change the way the brain reacts to the damage that can lead to dementia.
What has research shown?
A small study in 2017 tested this device in five people with dementia. Following the study, the participants reported increased cognitive function, better sleep, fewer angry bursts, less anxiety and less wandering.
A further study in 2018 also suggested that the device is safe and may improve some measures of cognitive function.
The very small number of participants and lack of a control group in these studies makes it impossible to make a conclusion about the effectiveness of the therapy.
