Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 50 and up

Improving cognitive abilities in older adults using rehabilitation and electrical stimulation

Official title: Patient-Centered NeuroRehabilitation

Run by University of Michigan · NCT03036319 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether a combination of brain training exercises and electrical stimulation can help older adults with memory and thinking problems improve their cognitive skills.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment500 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Michigan
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJune 2016
Main results expectedNovember 2027
Study endsNovember 2027
Registry record updatedJanuary 14, 2026
Trial IDNCT03036319 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are individuals aged 50 or older who report cognitive dysfunction or are cognitively intact.

Probably not a fit

Patients with a history of epilepsy, significant sensory or motor impairments, or current substance abuse 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 study evaluates the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation and transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) in enhancing cognitive abilities among older adults experiencing cognitive deficits. It aims to tailor neurorehabilitation treatments to individual patient needs, focusing on improving tasks related to attention, memory, and problem-solving. The study employs a cross-over design, allowing participants to experience both active and sham TES conditions, and compares different forms of TES, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and alternating current stimulation (tACS). The ultimate goal is to maximize cognitive and real-world functioning for older adults with various cognitive impairments.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance cognitive functioning and daily living skills for older adults with cognitive deficits.

How similar studies have gone: While the field of TES is relatively new, there is emerging evidence suggesting potential benefits from similar approaches, though this specific combination of interventions is less commonly tested.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Individuals who have reported cognitive dysfunction and cognitively intact participants.
2. Participants will be age 50 or older

Exclusion Criteria:

1. A history of epilepsy
2. Sensory or motor impairments that limit the ability to take part in the study
3. Current alcohol or drug abuse/dependence
4. Those who are currently pregnant or may become pregnant during the duration of the study (if there is a question of pregnancy, pregnancy tests will be available for participants at no charge)

Those who are being evaluated for TES methodology will also be excluded for 1) metallic or electronic implant 2) skull plates or other cranial implants that affect TES

Where it's running

  • University of Michigan - Department of Psychiatry
    Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Benjamin M Hampstead, Ph.D. — University of Michigan
  • Study coordinator: Kayla Rinna, M.S.
  • Email: krinna@med.umich.edu
  • Phone: 734-936-7739

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.