Combining brain stimulation and virtual reality for cognitive rehabilitation in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
A rTMS and Virtual Reality Based Cognitive Rehabilitation Program for MCI
This study is testing whether combining brain stimulation with virtual reality training can help older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment improve their thinking skills and mood.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Little Rock, Arkansas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06024473 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effects of combining repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) with immersive virtual reality cognitive training (iVCT) on cognitive functioning and mood in older adults diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Participants aged 55 and older will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group receiving usual care, a group receiving rTMS only, or a group receiving both rTMS and iVCT. The study aims to assess improvements in cognitive, emotional, and functional abilities, as well as the impact on caregiver burden, with evaluations conducted at baseline, post-treatment, and three months later. This innovative approach combines two non-pharmacological interventions to enhance treatment outcomes for MCI.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 55 and over with a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment and a MoCA score of 18 or higher.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of seizures, certain neurological disorders, or those taking medications that increase seizure risk may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve cognitive functioning and quality of life for patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment.
How similar studies have performed: While the combination of rTMS and virtual reality is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in improving cognitive function through non-pharmacological interventions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age 55 and over * previous diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment * Score of 18 or over on the MoCA during pre-screening procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * below 55 years old * Do not pass the TMS Adult Safety Screening * Taking medications known to increase risk of seizure * Taking ototoxic medications * Those with implanted device * History of bipolar disorder * History of Tourette's syndrome or presence of motor tics * History of seizures/ seizures in first degree relatives * History of stroke, aneurysm, or cranial neurosurgery * Current alcohol related disorder needing medical treatment * History of abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) * History of motion sickness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, or migraine * Significant balance/gait impairments/history of falls * History of hyperacusis or photophobia
Where this trial is running
Little Rock, Arkansas
- Central Arkansas VA Healthcare system — Little Rock, Arkansas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ian Moore, PhD
- Email: ian.moore@va.gov
- Phone: 501-257-2152
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.