Cognitive Training + tDCS for Depression
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a combination of non-drug treatments works to benefit memory, thinking, and brain functioning in older individuals with recurrent depression. The non-drug approaches the investigators are studying include transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and computerized cognitive training. tDCS uses small currents of electricity on the forehead to potentially stimulate your brain's ability to process and learn. Computerized cognitive training uses tablet games to improve memory and thinking.
In this study, two different cognitive training programs are being investigated, both of which are stimulating and designed to engage brain activity. One that is believed to be a specific treatment for depression, while the other provides extra stimulation for the brain that is non-specific. Two different tDCS parameters - active stimulation and sham (or placebo) stimulation - are also being investigated.
Participants will be randomized to one of three study groups:
1. Depression cognitive training treatment with active brain stimulation
2. Depression cognitive training treatment with sham brain stimulation
3. Non-specific cognitive training treatment with sham brain stimulation
The main questions this clinical trial aims to answer are:
* Does "depression cognitive training treatment with active brain stimulation" benefit thinking and memory more so than the other treatments?
* Does "depression cognitive training treatment with active brain stimulation" benefit brain functioning more so than the other treatments?
Participants will:
* Complete several baseline and post-intervention visits at the research center for checkups and tests over the course of 3-4 months.
* Visit the research center daily for 4 weeks to complete their assigned treatment.
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo daily cognitive training and tDCS sessions for 4 weeks
Post-Intervention Assessment
Participants complete post-intervention evaluations including psychiatric and neuropsychological assessments
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term effects on cognitive and brain function
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Depression Cognitive Training
- Non-Specific Cognitive Training
- tDCS (active stimulation)
- tDCS (sham stimulation)
How Is the Trial Designed?
3
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
This arm receives the non-specific cognitive training combined with sham tDCS.
This arm receives the depression cognitive training combined with sham tDCS.
This arm receives the depression cognitive training combined with active tDCS.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
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