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TMS for Memory Disorders – FAQs

Experiencing a struggle with your memory or judgement can be disorienting and frightening. Or maybe you’ve noticed your aging parent begin to decline and your worry can take over. Our Memory Disorder program focuses on helping patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia that may involve problems with memory, language, thinking and judgement.TMS therapy, one treatment we use, was cleared by the FDA in 2008 for depression and there is ongoing research that suggests its promise for dementia and to slow the progression of memory loss.

What is TMS?

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a safe, non-invasive, medication-free treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. While it is FDA-approved for depression, ongoing research shows its potential to improve cognitive function and slow the progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia.

TMS has minimal side effects compared to traditional medications and can be a great option for patients concerned about drug interactions or unwanted side effects. At Mindful Health Solutions, we tailor treatment plans to meet individual patient needs.

How does TMS work, and what does a treatment session look like?

TMS delivers localized electromagnetic pulses to the brain, stimulating neurons and promoting neurotransmitter release. This helps restore cognitive function and may slow memory decline.

What happens in a session?

  • You’ll sit in a comfortable chair while a TMS coil is placed on your head.
  • Unlike TMS for depression, memory disorder treatments include cognitive exercises during the session.
  • Magnetic pulses target dysregulated brain areas to enhance cognitive function.
  • Sessions last 25 minutes, with 25 treatments over seven weeks.
  • Cognitive abilities are tested before and after treatment to measure progress.

This combined approach may help improve memory, focus, and processing speed beyond what medications alone can achieve.

Is TMS better than medications? What are the success rates of TMS?

While medications may slow cognitive decline, they often come with side effects and potential drug interactions. TMS provides a drug-free alternative with promising results:

  • No drug-to-drug interactions—safe for patients on multiple medications.
  • No systemic side effects like those seen with traditional dementia medications.
  • Patients show cognitive improvement, rather than just slowing decline.
  • Studies show ADAS-COG scores improved by 3–4 points for MCI and dementia, an indicator of better cognitive function.

TMS may be an excellent option for patients seeking alternatives to medication or wanting to enhance cognitive function alongside traditional therapies.

Is TMS safe, and are there any side effects?

Yes, TMS is safe and has been FDA-approved since 2008. It has been used in millions of treatments, and research supports its use for cognitive impairment.

Common, mild side effects:

  • Headaches
  • Scalp discomfort
  • Lightheadedness
  • Mild facial twitching (temporary)

These side effects typically subside within two weeks as patients adjust.

Rare but serious side effects:

  • Seizures (extremely rare)
  • Hearing sensitivity (from treatment noise)
  • Mania (only in bipolar patients)

Most patients resume normal activities immediately and may notice increased energy, focus, and cognitive clarity after treatment.

Who benefits most from TMS?

TMS may benefit individuals with:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—a stage between normal aging and mild dementia.
  • Mild dementia—patients experiencing memory loss but still managing daily activities.
  • Early-stage Alzheimer’s disease (not yet FDA-approved in the U.S. but approved in Europe).

TMS may help slow the progression of cognitive decline and enhance brain function in those at risk for advanced dementia.

At Mindful Health Solutions, we are committed to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care to help patients navigate cognitive disorders.

Does insurance cover TMS treatment?

Currently, TMS is not covered by insurance for mild dementia or cognitive impairment. However, we offer several out-of-pocket packages to make treatment more accessible. Contact us to discuss affordable options tailored to your needs.