Brain Stimulation for Age-Related Memory Decline
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if brain stimulation can help with memory decline associated with aging. It uses high-definition transcranial electrical current stimulation, which sends small electrical currents to the brain. Participants will receive either actual brain stimulation or a sham version to assess any real effects. Suitable candidates are individuals aged 68-80 who have noticed memory problems but do not have major neurological issues or head injuries. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to groundbreaking research on memory improvement techniques.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking any psychoactive medication (drugs that affect your mind, emotions, or behavior), you will need to stop taking them to participate in this trial.
What prior data suggests that high definition transcranial electrical current stimulation is safe for age-related memory decline?
Research has shown that high-definition transcranial electrical current stimulation (HD-tDCS) is generally safe. Studies have found that patients tolerate it well. For example, a review found that HD-tDCS can improve memory in people with Alzheimer's disease without causing major side effects. Another study demonstrated its effectiveness in addressing sleep problems in people with chronic insomnia, again with no serious negative effects reported. Overall, evidence suggests that HD-tDCS is a safe option for enhancing brain functions.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional treatments for age-related memory decline, which often involve medication or cognitive therapy, high definition transcranial electrical current stimulation (HD-tDCS) offers a non-invasive way to potentially enhance brain function. This technique uses precise electrical currents to stimulate specific brain areas, aiming to improve memory by directly influencing neural activity. Researchers are excited because HD-tDCS might offer quicker results with fewer side effects compared to current options, potentially leading to safer and more effective management of memory decline.
What evidence suggests that high definition transcranial electrical current stimulation is effective for age-related memory decline?
Studies have shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can improve thinking skills in older adults. Research indicates that this treatment enhances memory and word recall. A review of several studies found that combining tDCS with brain exercises is more effective than exercises alone, resulting in better and longer-lasting improvements in thinking skills. One study demonstrated that participants experienced improved learning and memory recall after receiving tDCS. These findings suggest that this brain stimulation may help reduce age-related memory decline. In this trial, participants will receive either active stimulation using high-definition transcranial electrical current stimulation or a sham stimulation to evaluate its effectiveness in addressing age-related memory decline.36789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older adults aged 68-80 with normal cognitive function (as shown by specific mental exams), no psychoactive medication use, and good vision. They must not have electronic implants, metal in the head, skin sensitivity issues, depression, neurological problems or a history of head injury.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive noninvasive transcranial electrical current stimulation while performing computer-based tasks to assess memory and cognitive function
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- High definition transcranial electrical current stimulation
Trial Overview
The study tests if high definition transcranial electrical current stimulation can improve memory and cognition in older adults by enhancing brain activity patterns. It's non-drug based and could lead to new treatments for age-related cognitive decline.
How Is the Trial Designed?
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Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Placebo Group
High definition transcranial electrical current stimulation is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Investigational use for Alzheimer's disease-related memory impairment
- Investigational use for Alzheimer's disease-related memory impairment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Boston University Charles River Campus
Lead Sponsor
Citations
High definition transcranial direct current stimulation as an ...
The primary outcome was change in total learning and delayed recall on the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) immediately post-treatment and at 8-weeks.
A meta-analysis of the effects of transcranial direct current ...
The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore how different tDCS protocols in combination with CT enhanced WM in healthy older adults.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of ...
Numerous studies have demonstrated the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on cognitive function in the older people.
Enhanced cognitive performance in older adults through ...
These findings suggest that combining CT with active tDCS is more effective in enhancing and sustaining cognitive performance in older adults compared to CT ...
Potential of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in ...
Transcranial direct current stimulation enhances verbal working memory training performance over time and near transfer outcomes. J Cogn ...
Safety and feasibility of optimized transcranial direct current ...
This study aims to determine the feasibility and safety of applying tDCS treatment using optimized and personalized tDCS electrode positions in patients with ...
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Cognitive ...
This study presents the first bibliometric analysis of the literature on tDCS in the rehabilitation of cognitive impairment, highlighting key areas of research ...
Effects of high-definition transcranial direct current ...
HD-tDCS on the DMPFC is effective in sleep promotion and daily sleepiness recovery in patients with chronic insomnia. These findings demonstrate ...
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frontiersin.org
frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2024.1454755/fullA meta-analysis of the effects of transcranial direct current ...
The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore how different tDCS protocols in combination with CT enhanced WM in healthy older adults.
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