tDCS Effects on GABA Concentration and Brain Functional Connectivity in Older Adults of Retirement Age

Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on GABA Concentration and Brain Functional Connectivity in Older Adults

The aim of this study is to investigate whether anodal tDCS over the left M1 leads to a decrease of GABA concentration and alterations of functional brain connectivity in older people, compared to sham tDCS.

Inclusion Criteria:

• unobtrusive neuropsychological screening
• age: older adults of retirement age: ≥66 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or other neurological diseases.
• History of severe alcoholism or use of drugs.
• Severe psychiatric disorders such as depression, psychosis (if not in remission) and severe untreated medical problems.
• Contraindication for MRI (claustrophobia, metallic implants, ferromagnetic metals in the body, disorders of thermoregulation, pregnant women).