Brainsway TMS Therapy for Late-life Depression Q&A

BrainsWay TMS Therapy, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain areas involved in mood regulation. This therapy is particularly beneficial for our elderly patients who may be resistant to other forms of treatment, such as medication or psychotherapy.

Unlike traditional antidepressants, which require systemic absorption, TMS works directly on the brain, specifically targeting areas known to be involved in mood regulation. TMS helps restore healthy neural connections and balance brain chemistry by applying magnetic pulses to these areas. This enhanced function can alleviate depressive symptoms and improve overall well-being, making it an excellent treatment option for our patients.

The treatment approach normally consists of a series of TMS treatments spread out over several weeks, each lasting approximately 20-30 minutes. During a TMS session patients sit comfortably while an MRI-guided coil, placed over the targeted brain area, delivers brief, painless magnetic pulses.

BrainsWay TMS Therapy can provide numerous benefits for our patients with late-life depression, such as reduced depressive symptoms, improved mood and energy levels, enhanced cognitive function, increased motivation and engagement, and reduced anxiety and stress. The response to the therapy varies among individuals, with some experiencing significant relief, while others may notice a slight improvement.

TMS is generally well-tolerated with few side effects, such as minor headaches or scalp soreness that usually goes away in a few days. Patients remain awake and alert throughout the process, which does not require anesthesia or sedation. Furthermore, the treatment does not have systemic side effects, making it a safe option for our elderly patients, even those with other health conditions. However, certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy or a history of brain injury, may preclude some individuals from this treatment.

BrainsWay TMS Therapy offers a promising alternative for our patients who have not responded to traditional treatments. We strive to alleviate depressive symptoms and improve the quality of life of our patients, especially those in their later years.

As we age, cognitive function naturally declines and this can lead to difficulties with memory, attention, and problem-solving. TMS can potentially improve these cognitive abilities in seniors:

• Working Memory: TMS can stimulate the prefrontal cortex, a brain region critical for working memory, thereby improving memory span and cognitive flexibility.
• Attention: TMS can target the parietal lobes, which are responsible for attention, to enhance sustained attention and reduce distractibility.
• Executive Function: TMS can stimulate the prefrontal cortex to improve planning, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Processing Speed: TMS can be applied to the occipital lobes, which are involved in visual processing, to accelerate the speed at which individuals process information.

Our team at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches maintains current on the newest research and clinical trials to ensure that we provide the most effective therapies possible. We always ensure the safety of our patients and thoroughly discuss potential risks and benefits with each individual before starting TMS therapy.

While TMS is not a cure-all for cognitive decline, it’s a promising tool in managing age-related cognitive decline. We are dedicated to delivering patient-centered care, which is why we are always looking into cutting-edge treatment alternatives like TMS. Reach out to us at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches for more information on TMS and its potential benefits for you or a loved one.

Clinical studies have shown BrainsWay TMS’s effectiveness in treating depression in seniors with coexisting medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.

BrainsWay TMS treatment does not require anesthesia and does not lead to systemic side effects, making it a relatively safe option for seniors. Common side effects include headache or lightheadedness, scalp discomfort at the treatment site, and tingling sensations in the facial muscles. These side effects are typically mild and transient, usually decreasing over time and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

BrainsWay TMS might also not be suitable for individuals with metal implants in or near the head, except for dental fillings, due to the magnetic fields used in the treatment.

While BrainsWay TMS is generally safe for seniors, it should be considered on an individual basis, taking into account the person’s overall health and specific conditions. At Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches, we provide personalized care, ensuring the potential benefits and risks are weighed before deciding on any treatment plan.

During a TMS session at our facility, patients are seated comfortably in a reclining chair with their heads positioned on a headrest. Our highly trained medical professionals then apply magnetic fields to specific areas of the brain, using a small, curved device containing a magnetic coil.

Each TMS session at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches is individualized. Our team will determine the amount of magnetic energy needed to ensure the treatment is both safe and effective. This process is known as finding the motor threshold and is crucial to the success of the procedure.

Our TMS treatments involve delivering short pulses of magnetic fields to targeted areas of the brain. This stimulation encourages the targeted brain regions to enhance their function and connectivity.

Post-TMS session, patients can resume their daily activities immediately. Side effects are minimal but may include mild headaches or scalp discomfort at the treatment site, which usually diminishes throughout the treatment.

At Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches, our goal is to reduce symptoms of depression in our patients. Communication with our patients is prioritized throughout the procedure to help alleviate any concerns and monitor comfort and safety. This patient-centered approach, along with our commitment to the most advanced treatments, is what sets Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches apart as a leading provider of psychiatric care. We have convenient locations to serve you. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Port St. Lucie FL, Beau Rivage West FL, and Melbourne FL, Palm Bay FL, and surrounding areas.