Enhancing Cognitive Control in Mild Cognitive Impairment Via Non-invasive Brain Stimulation

Enhancing Cognitive Control in Mild Cognitive Impairment Via Non-invasive Brain Stimulation

The overall goal of this project is to improve cognitive control abilities in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through a form of non-invasive brain stimulation, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS).

30 older adults aged 60-80 years with md-aMCI were randomized to 8 sessions of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) with simultaneous cognitive control training (CCT). The intervention took place within the participant's home without direct researcher assistance. Half of the participants received prefrontal theta tACS during CCT and the other half received control tACS. Outcomes were assessed pre and post intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• English speaking
• Grade 12 or more education
• Normal or corrected to normal vision and hearing
• Ability to complete cognitive tasks
• Ability to cooperate and comply with all study procedures
• Ability to tolerate tACS
• Montreal Cognitive Assessment score: 17-28
• -1 z-score on immediate memory, delayed memory, fluency, processing speed, or task switch
• Self-reported memory complaint

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurological or psychiatric disorders other than mild cognitive impairment
• Receiving investigational medications or have participated in a trial with investigational medications within last 30 days
• Family history of epilepsy
• Implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemaker)
• Prior head trauma
• Pregnant
• IQ < 80
• Taking cholinesterase inhibitory, memantine, or psychotropic medication
• Taking anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication
• Color blind
• Substance abuse
• Glaucoma
• Macular degeneration
• Amblyopia (lazy eye)
• Strabismus (crossed eyes)