Non-drug strategies, whether as alternatives or complements to standard care, continue to be of interest to researchers (1-3). Negative drug-related side effects and a lack of evidence to support the use of drug options in certain instances are just a few of the reasons why non-drug strategies may be recommended or even preferred (1-6). Click on the links below to learn more about several non-drug strategies that may be of help for three common diseases and conditions.
1. Dementia
It is estimated that about 1 in 4 adults aged 85 and over have been diagnosed with dementia in Canada (7). Difficulty sleeping is a common issue in people living with dementia. It increases their risk of accidental falls and worsens cognitive issues and wandering. Research shows that various non-drug strategies—such as physical activities, social activities, approaches that involve caregivers, and multi-component strategies—may produce slight to moderate improvements in sleep in people living with dementia, compared to usual care (1).
2. Cancer
Over their lifetime, 2 in 5 Canadians will receive a cancer diagnosis (8). The effects of cancer, treatments, and all that comes with such a diagnosis can result in physical and psychological impacts that reduce quality of life. These include depression, distress, fatigue, nausea, and difficulty sleeping (2;9-11). Research shows that combining music-based strategies with standard care may decrease anxiety, depression, pain, and fatigue in adult cancer patients, compared to standard care on its own. Additionally, these strategies may also help boost hope and quality of life (2).
3. Frailty
Over 1.6 million older adults in Canada are medically frail (12). Individuals who are frail experience a decline in healthy or normal bodily function, leaving them increasingly vulnerable to negative health outcomes (3;13-18). Research shows that non-drug strategies such as physical activity (e.g., resistance training, mind-body exercises, mixed physical training, and aerobic training), nutritional supplementation, and multi-component approaches may help reduce frailty in older adults. However, physical activity, especially resistance training, appears to be the most effective strategy. In terms of safety, some non-drug strategies can lead to falls and injuries (3).
From dementia to frailty, non-drug strategies may have the potential to produce positive health impacts. That said, more high-quality research is needed to increase our confidence in these results, better understand any safety concerns, and determine optimal individual or combined strategies (1-3). Those interested in trying a non-drug strategy should first discuss all available options with their healthcare team before adopting them.
