Cognitive rehabilitation for long COVID brain fog

Technique to Enable Return-to-Work by Employees With Long COVID Brain Fog

Not applicable Interventional University of Alabama at Birmingham · NCT06095297

This study is testing two different brain training methods to see which one helps adults with long COVID brain fog improve their thinking skills and daily activities.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other
Locations1 site (Birmingham, Alabama)
Trial IDNCT06095297 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares two cognitive rehabilitation approaches for adults experiencing mild to moderate cognitive impairment due to long COVID. One approach focuses on processing speed training and everyday cognitive tasks, while the other emphasizes reaction time and lifestyle changes. Both methods include non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation and aim to improve cognitive function and daily living activities. Participants will engage in web-based games and in-lab training to enhance their cognitive abilities and overall brain health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over three months post-COVID with mild cognitive impairment and brain fog affecting daily activities.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairment due to developmental disabilities, psychiatric disorders, or other neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients suffering from long COVID brain fog.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in cognitive rehabilitation for similar conditions, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* \>3 months post COVID
* mild or greater cognitive impairment
* moderate or greater brain fog
* impairment in performance of daily activities
* reside in community
* reliable transportation to lab
* sufficiently mentally and physically fit
* adequate sight and hearing
* ability to follow directions, and retain information
* sufficient English proficiency

Exclusion Criteria:

* cognitive impairment due to developmental disability, psychiatric disorder, or substance abuse, TBI or progressive brain disease
* stroke prior to the onset of COVID
* current substance abuse disorder
* prior cognitive processing speed training on DoubleDecision or similar program
* cannot tolerate trans-auricular vagus nerve stimulation

Where this trial is running

Birmingham, Alabama

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Long COVIDBrain FogCognitive ImpairmentCognitive DysfunctionPost-Acute COVID-19 SyndromeVocational RehabilitationCOVID-19PASC
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.