Impact of Combined Photo-Biomodulation and Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function and Quality-of-Life in Elderly...

Few data are available on the positive impact of photo-biomodulation (PBM) using low-level laser therapy as a complementary treatment for improving the cognitive function and optimizing the hemoglobin (Hb) level and oxygen carrying capacity in anemic elderly patients and consequently improving the quality-of-life. The present study aimed to evaluate a new, safe, and easy therapeutic approach to improve Alzheimer's disease-related symptoms that interfere with the whole life activities and social interaction of elderly patients.

In this placebo-controlled clinical trial, 60 elderly patients suffering from anemia and mild cognitive dysfunction were randomly assigned into two equal groups to receive active or placebo low-level laser in addition to a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise over a 12-week period. Hb level as well as cognitive and functional tests were reassessed for any change after 12 weeks of intervention.

By the end of this study, both groups showed significant improvements in Hb level, Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCa - B basic), Quality-of-Life for Alzheimer's Disease scale, and Berg Balance scale scores along with significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) (P<0.0001). The experimental group which received active low-level laser in addition to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise showed more significant results compared to the control group which received placebo low-level laser in addition to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in all the measured outcomes (P<0.001).

Combined low-level laser therapy and moderate-intensity aerobic exercises are more effective in improving the cognitive function and quality-of-life of Alzheimer's disease patients.

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04496778.