Combining brain stimulation and virtual reality for cognitive rehabilitation in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Official title: A rTMS and Virtual Reality Based Cognitive Rehabilitation Program for MCI
Run by Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System · NCT06024473 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Little Rock, Arkansas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 31, 2024 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | September 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 20, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06024473 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While the combination of rTMS and virtual reality is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in improving cognitive function through non-pharmacological interventions.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.