Last Updated: October 2025

For decades, Alzheimer’s disease was believed to be irreversible. However, new breakthroughs in neuroscience and clinical research are transforming that outlook. At The Carroll Institute in Sarasota, Dr. Garland Glenn, DC, PhD, AFMC, applies the science of Functional Neurology and the Bredesen ReCODE Protocol to help patients strengthen brain communication, rebuild neural pathways, and regain cognitive function.

While medications aim to manage symptoms, Functional Neurology focuses on the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt and heal—a process known as neuroplasticity. By retraining weakened neural circuits and addressing the root causes of decline, patients can often experience measurable improvements in memory, attention, and quality of life.

Alzheimer’s Disease and the Breakdown of Brain Communication

Alzheimer’s is not a single-cause condition. It develops when multiple systems in the brain begin to fail—metabolic, inflammatory, hormonal, and vascular. Over time, these imbalances disrupt the brain’s ability to communicate efficiently. Memory lapses, disorientation, and language difficulties emerge as the brain’s network connectivity deteriorates.

Functional Neurology recognizes this communication breakdown as the key to understanding and reversing cognitive decline. By identifying which regions of the brain are underperforming and which circuits are disconnected, clinicians can design personalized rehabilitation programs to restore balance and function.

Functional Neurology: A Brain-Based Approach to Alzheimer’s

In Functional Neurology, the goal is to reactivate dormant or weakened areas of the brain through precise, repetitive stimulation. The therapy is individualized, targeting specific neural pathways linked to the patient’s symptoms. For example, a person struggling with spatial awareness or orientation may perform eye-movement and balance exercises that engage the cerebellum and parietal lobes—regions essential for navigation and coordination.

Unlike traditional neurology, which relies on pharmaceuticals to control symptoms, Functional Neurology provides direct activation to help the brain reconnect. This approach is especially effective when paired with the Bredesen ReCODE Protocol, which addresses metabolic and lifestyle factors known to contribute to Alzheimer’s progression.

Rebuilding Brain Pathways Through Neuroplasticity

Research shows that even in Alzheimer’s disease, neuroplasticity remains possible (NIH, 2023). Functional Neurology leverages this capacity by providing targeted, repeated stimulation that encourages the brain to “rewire” itself. Each session at The Carroll Institute activates precise regions associated with memory, attention, and executive function, helping reestablish lost communication between neurons.

These changes don’t happen overnight, but consistent, well-designed therapy produces measurable gains. Patients often begin to notice clearer thinking, better word recall, and improved focus within a few months. This steady progression demonstrates that the brain can heal—when given the right inputs.

Advanced Technologies That Enhance Brain Recovery

The Carroll Institute integrates several cutting-edge technologies into its Functional Neurology and Alzheimer’s programs. Two of the most effective are:

• Neuronic Photobiomodulation Helmet — This non-invasive light therapy increases oxygenation, energy metabolism, and blood flow in the cortex (Science Advances, 2022). Improved energy production supports neuron repair and cognitive resilience.
• Neurosensory Motor Integrator (SMI) — This interactive visual-motor training system re-engages brain circuits responsible for coordination, focus, and reaction speed (RKB Instruments). Patients perform custom exercises that rebuild neural timing and attention.

Combined with Photobiomodulation and Sensorimotor Integration Therapy, these tools accelerate the brain’s ability to rebuild damaged circuits. They are particularly powerful for patients who struggle with both cognitive and physical symptoms, such as imbalance, slow reaction times, or poor focus.

Functional Neurology and the ReCODE Protocol: A Comprehensive Strategy

Functional Neurology works best when it’s part of a comprehensive approach that also addresses the metabolic side of Alzheimer’s. That’s why The Carroll Institute integrates the Bredesen ReCODE Protocol, a personalized plan designed to identify and correct the root causes of cognitive decline—such as insulin resistance, nutrient deficiencies, toxins, infections, or hormonal imbalances.

When neurorehabilitation is combined with metabolic repair, patients experience a synergy that accelerates progress. For instance, optimizing thyroid function and reducing inflammation enhances the brain’s response to stimulation, allowing new neural connections to form more effectively. This mind-body integration is the foundation of Dr. Glenn’s results—where over 80% of patients show measurable improvement in cognition, memory, and daily function.

What Patients Commonly Experience

Patients participating in Functional Neurology programs for Alzheimer’s often report:

• Improved recall and word retrieval
• Better focus and attention span
• Enhanced balance and coordination
• Fewer “foggy” moments and mental fatigue
• Increased confidence and emotional stability

Progress varies depending on the extent of cognitive decline and the number of contributing factors, but most patients begin to notice positive changes within three to six months of consistent therapy.

Early Detection and Prevention

One of the most important messages from recent research is that Alzheimer’s can often be prevented—or significantly slowed—if brain changes are detected early. Functional Neurology allows clinicians to identify subtle coordination or eye-movement issues long before memory symptoms arise. These early warning signs, when addressed through targeted therapy, can prevent further degeneration and protect brain health for years to come.

If you or someone you love is at risk or already noticing cognitive decline, book a Discovery Call with The Carroll Institute today. Early action can make all the difference in preserving independence and quality of life.

Sources

• Reversal of Cognitive Decline: Aging (2014)
• Reversal of Cognitive Decline in 100 Patients: ResearchGate (2018)
• Precision Medicine Approach to Alzheimer’s Disease: NIH (2023)
• Rationale for Multi-Factorial Approach: NIH (2023)
• Photobiomodulation Improves Cerebral Blood Flow: Science Advances (2022)
• Neurosensory Motor Integrator: RKB Instruments

---