Combination of tDCS and Cognitive Rehabilitation for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Late Life Depression
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The overall goals of this project are to assess the feasibility and impact of designing and implementing an at-home intervention aimed at preventing long-term cognitive decline and improving cognition in individuals currently at-risk for developing AD.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You may need to stop taking certain medications, especially anticonvulsants and some psychotropic drugs, unless they can be safely tapered off. However, some medications like zopiclone, trazodone, benzodiazepines, gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine, venlafaxine, or low-dose tricyclic antidepressants are allowed if you've been on a stable dose for at least 4 weeks before joining the study.
What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment for mild cognitive impairment and late life depression?
Research shows that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a method of gently stimulating the brain, can help improve cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment. Combining tDCS with cognitive rehabilitation, which involves exercises to improve thinking skills, has shown promise in enhancing cognitive abilities in conditions like Alzheimer's and stroke.12345
Is the combination of tDCS and cognitive rehabilitation safe for humans?
How is the combination of tDCS and cognitive rehabilitation unique for treating mild cognitive impairment and late-life depression?
This treatment is unique because it combines transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive method that uses electrical currents to stimulate the brain, with cognitive rehabilitation exercises. This combination aims to enhance cognitive function more effectively than either approach alone, especially in individuals with lower baseline cognitive function.12789
Research Team
Tarek Rajji, MD
Principal Investigator
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for people over 60 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or a history of depression. Participants must meet specific criteria, have had depression in the past decade but currently have low depressive symptoms, and be able to communicate in English. They need a study partner who knows them well. Those with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, or recent substance abuse can't join.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive active cognitive remediation and transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) at home for 8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Facilitate tDCS + CR
- Receive tDCS+CR
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Lead Sponsor
CAMH Foundation
Collaborator