Treating Insomnia in Mild Cognitive Impairment

Neuromodulation and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in MCI

The goal of this study is to test a new way to improve sleep quality in persons living with mild cognitive impairment. The treatment combines a safe and gentle way to stimulate the brain, called transcranial magnetic stimulation, with a psychological treatment, called cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 60 years or older
• Speak and read English
• Clinical diagnosis of MCI or Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI)-a perceived gradual worsening in cognitive ability relative to one's younger self, or peer group-reported by either the participant or informant
• Reported insomnia symptoms (sleep-onset and/or sleep maintenance) that cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning over the past three months
• Have access to an Internet-enabled computer or tablet at home, or ability to connect a BIDMC-provided tablet to the internet, with private space to complete cognitive testing
• Capable of and willing to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Evidence of significant cognitive impairment or dementia
• Contraindications for TMS or MRI
• Current psychological treatment for insomnia
• Uncontrolled moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea or other untreated sleep disorder (e.g., Restless Leg Syndrome, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder, parasomnia). Sleep apnea that is managed (e.g., regular use of a CPAP) and stable for ≥3 months is allowed.
• Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Lewy-Body disease, or other neurological condition known to impact sleep
• Current diagnosis of major psychiatric disorder (well-controlled depression or anxiety is permitted)
• Current opiate/opioid use
• Alcohol or drug abuse within the past year
• Irregular sleep schedule (bedtime before 8pm/after 2am OR wake time before 4am/after 10am), unless participant states they are willing and able to change if prompted.