Improving cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment using meditation and brain stimulation
Accelerating Cognitive Gains from Digital Meditation with Noninvasive Brain Stimulation: A Pilot Study in MCI
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10783766
This study is looking to help older adults with mild cognitive impairment feel better and think more clearly by using a gentle brain stimulation technique along with a special meditation program, and it aims to see how these methods can improve their memory, stress levels, sleep, and overall health.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10783766 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance cognitive abilities and overall wellbeing in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through a combination of non-invasive brain stimulation and a unique digital meditation program called MediTrain. Participants will receive transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) while engaging in this closed-loop meditation, which is designed to target specific brain networks associated with attention. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial with 90 older adults, assessing improvements in cognition, stress, sleep, and biological markers of aging. By exploring this innovative approach, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into effective interventions for those at risk of progressing to Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 21 and above who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those not diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments that improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients with mild cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored the combination of brain stimulation and meditation in younger populations, this specific approach in older adults with MCI is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZIEGLER, DAVID A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: ZIEGLER, DAVID A
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.