Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias affect millions of families, causing progressive decline in memory, thinking, and daily functioning. While there is no cure, emerging research suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may help support cognitive function and slow decline in mild to moderate stages of the disease.
At Complete Mind Care of PA, with location in Villanova and Horsham, our experienced team of over 20 board-certified providers offers advanced neuromodulation treatments as part of comprehensive dementia care.
Our leadership team brings extensive experience from building a successful 35-location TMS practice, giving us deep expertise in neuromodulation treatments. We serve more than 4,500 active patients across our Horsham and Villanova locations with extended hours to accommodate families managing the complexities of dementia care.
We understand that every person’s experience with cognitive decline is unique. Remission is our mission, and while we cannot promise to reverse dementia, we’re committed to exploring every evidence-based approach that may help preserve cognitive function and quality of life for as long as possible.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It involves progressive damage to brain cells, leading to decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform daily activities. Other forms of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Early symptoms often begin with difficulty remembering recent events or conversations. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience confusion about time or place, difficulty with familiar tasks, problems with words and communication, misplacing items, decreased judgment, withdrawal from social activities, and changes in mood and personality.
Current FDA-approved medications for Alzheimer’s disease include cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and memantine, which may provide modest symptomatic benefits. However, these medications do not stop or reverse the underlying disease process, and many patients continue to decline despite treatment. This has led researchers to investigate complementary approaches like brain stimulation.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses focused magnetic pulses to modulate activity in specific brain regions. While TMS is FDA-approved for depression and OCD, its application in dementia is investigational and considered an emerging treatment approach.
Important Note: TMS is not FDA-approved for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. At Complete Mind Care of PA, we offer TMS for cognitive support as an advanced treatment option based on emerging research. This treatment is provided on a cash-pay basis and should be viewed as complementary to standard dementia care.
Alzheimer’s disease involves disrupted communication between brain cells, loss of synaptic connections, and accumulation of abnormal proteins (amyloid plaques and tau tangles). These changes lead to decreased brain activity in regions critical for memory and thinking.
TMS delivers magnetic pulses through a coil placed on the scalp, creating small electrical currents that can modulate neural activity. High-frequency TMS (typically 10-20 Hz) increases cortical excitability and may enhance the function of weakened neural networks. Some protocols combine stimulation of multiple brain sites to target different aspects of cognitive function.
Research suggests TMS may improve cognitive function through several mechanisms. It may enhance synaptic plasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections and strengthen existing ones. Studies show it can improve connectivity between brain regions that work together for memory and thinking. Some research indicates TMS might influence neurotransmitter systems (particularly acetylcholine) that are depleted in Alzheimer’s disease. Animal studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, though human evidence remains preliminary.
Clinical trials have shown improvements in cognitive assessment scores (such as the Mini-Mental State Examination and Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale) in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Effects appear strongest in earlier stages of disease and may be sustained for weeks to months after treatment. However, results vary considerably between individuals, and TMS does not stop or reverse the underlying disease process.
Comprehensive Evaluation: Treatment begins with a thorough assessment by our board-certified psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners. We’ll review the diagnosis, cognitive testing results, current medications, overall health status, and stage of dementia. Brain imaging (MRI or CT) is typically reviewed to understand the pattern and extent of brain changes. We’ll also conduct a motor threshold test to calibrate the TMS device.
Treatment Protocol: Dementia TMS protocols vary based on research findings and individual needs. Most protocols involve daily sessions, Monday through Friday, for 2-6 weeks. Some approaches use extended courses with maintenance sessions. Each session lasts approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on whether single or multiple brain sites are targeted.
During treatment, you or your loved one will sit comfortably while the TMS coil is positioned over specific brain regions. The treatment produces clicking sounds and a tapping sensation on the scalp. Most patients tolerate this well, though individuals with dementia may need time to become accustomed to the sensation. A family member or caregiver may remain present during sessions for comfort and support.
Monitoring Progress: We use standardized cognitive assessments to track changes in memory, attention, language, and daily functioning. We also gather feedback from family members or caregivers about behavioral changes, mood, and quality of life. This ongoing monitoring helps us understand whether treatment is providing meaningful benefit.
Realistic Expectations: It’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations. TMS for dementia is investigational and does not work for everyone. When benefits occur, they are typically modest and may include stabilization of cognitive function rather than dramatic improvement. The goal is to potentially slow decline or maintain current function for a longer period, not to reverse existing damage.
Potential Candidates: Individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment who are on stable medication regimens, have caregiver support for attending frequent appointments, are able to tolerate sitting still for 30-45 minutes, and understand that this is an emerging treatment with variable outcomes.
TMS May Not Be Appropriate With: Severe dementia (as research suggests limited benefit in advanced stages), implanted metallic or electronic devices near the head, history of seizures, or inability to cooperate with treatment procedures.
Important Considerations: TMS for dementia should be viewed as one component of comprehensive care, not a replacement for FDA-approved medications, cognitive stimulation, physical activity, social engagement, and appropriate medical management. Research is most encouraging for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Benefits in other types of dementia or advanced disease are less well established. Response varies significantly between individuals. Some may experience measurable cognitive improvement, while others see minimal change. Treatment requires a significant time commitment from both the patient and caregiver.
We recognize that pursuing treatment for dementia affects the entire family. Our team provides dementia-informed care that respects the dignity and personhood of each individual while supporting families through the challenges of this journey.
Our comfortable, private treatment rooms offer a calm environment for sessions. We work closely with families to address concerns, adjust approaches as needed, and ensure that treatment aligns with overall care goals. Our extended hours (7 AM – 8 PM weekdays) provide flexibility for families managing complex schedules.
All TMS sessions are supervised by our trained clinical staff with immediate access to our board-certified psychiatric providers who have experience in both brain stimulation and dementia care.
Because TMS for dementia is not FDA-approved for this indication, this treatment is not covered by insurance and is provided on a cash-pay basis. We provide transparent pricing during your consultation so families can make informed decisions.
Given the significant financial commitment and uncertain outcomes, we encourage families to carefully consider whether this investment aligns with their overall care priorities and resources. Our team can provide documentation for any reimbursement requests you wish to pursue with your insurance carrier, though coverage is unlikely.
When cognitive improvements occur, research suggests they may last from several weeks to several months after treatment. Some protocols include maintenance sessions to sustain benefits. However, Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, and decline will eventually continue regardless of treatment.
Learn more about the research on transcranial magnetic stimulation for Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline:
Disclaimer: TMS for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is an investigational treatment approach and is not FDA-approved for these indications. Individual results vary significantly. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with qualified healthcare providers specializing in dementia care to determine if TMS is appropriate for your situation.
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721 Dresher Rd # 1100, Horsham, PA 19044
721 Dresher Rd # 1100, Horsham, PA 19044
Complete Mind Care was founded on the premise of providing full mental health support delivered by a team of expert professionals, in the comfort of a world-class facility local to you—so you can build a foundation for lasting recovery close to home. Plus 40+ additional insurance carriers accepted.
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