Improving memory in older adults with cognitive impairment using brain stimulation
Cognitive Outcomes of Brain Stimulation As a Later-in-Life Treatment
NA · University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT05564715
This study is testing if a special type of brain stimulation can help older adults with memory problems, like mild cognitive impairment or dementia, remember things better.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 9999 (estimated) |
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT05564715 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study aims to enhance episodic memory in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia through high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) targeting specific brain regions associated with memory and language retrieval. Participants will undergo 10 sessions of either active HD-tDCS or a sham treatment over two weeks, with cognitive assessments conducted at baseline, immediately after treatment, and two months later. The study will also allow participants from the sham group to receive active treatment after the initial phase, enabling a comparison of cognitive outcomes. The goal is to determine the efficacy of this neurostimulation approach in improving cognitive functions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 55 and older with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or dementia who are fluent in English.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of major neurologic syndromes, substance use disorders, or those with certain medical conditions affecting treatment response may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve memory and cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested that neurostimulation targeting similar brain regions can improve cognitive functions, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Active diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or dementia, Female and male subjects, All races/ethnicities, Age 55 years and older, Fluent in English, Exclusion Criteria: Lifetime history of major neurologic syndromes (e.g., epilepsy, brain tumor, etc), Substance use disorder within the past year, Has metal fragments in skull/head, Current vision or hearing impairment that interferes with testing, Current medication use known to alter HD-tDCS reactivity
Where this trial is running
Dallas, Texas
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
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.
Conditions: Mild Cognitive Impairment, Dementia, Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment - aMCI