Alzheimer's & Mild Cognitive Impairment
Research Study
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are conducting a study to assess the use of non-invasive brain stimulation in order to address language and memory abilities with individuals who have Alzheimer’s Disease, Primary Progressive Aphasia, or Mild Cognitive Impairment.
Fast Facts
Alzheimer's Disease or Mild Cognitive Impairment
45-85 Years Old
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Baltimore, MD
Study Background
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Typical and Atypical Alzheimer’s disease
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive form of neuromodulation, a therapy that involves stimulating the nervous system. It stimulates the brain with a low-level electrical current through electrodes on the head.
In this research study, we want to find out whether tDCS can improve language and cognitive abilities in people who have Alzheimer’s disease and/or aphasia (difficulties in understanding or expressing words).
Participation in this study lasts 8 months, split up into two periods of treatment. All participants receive memory and language therapy along with the tDCS treatment. The study facility is located in Baltimore, MD, and we are able to offer housing options for participants coming from far away.
Eventually, we hope that the findings of this study might be useful for treating people with language disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of cognitive impairment.
Protocol #IRB00201027
Study Background
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Typical and Atypical Alzheimer’s disease
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive form of neuromodulation. It stimulates the brain with a low-level electrical current through electrodes on the head.
In this research study, we want to find out whether tDCS can improve language and cognitive abilities in people who have Alzheimer’s disease and/or aphasia (difficulties in understanding or expressing words).
Participation in this study lasts 8 months, split up into two periods of treatment. All participants receive memory and language therapy along with the tDCS treatment. The study facility is located in Baltimore, MD, and we are able to offer housing options for participants coming from far away.
Eventually, we hope that the findings of this study might be useful for treating people with language disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of cognitive impairment.
Protocol #IRB00201027
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of neuromodulation, a therapy that involves stimulating the nervous system, using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on language and cognition recovery in individuals with aphasia or Alzheimer’s disease.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 45-85 years old
- Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or Mild Cognitive Impairment
- Right-handed
- Proficient in English
- Completed high school
Exclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with any other neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, developmental dyslexia)
- Significant hearing loss
- Uncorrectable visual problems
- Advanced dementia or severe language impairments
- Significant psychiatric conditions (e.g., behavioral disturbances, severe depression, schizophrenia)
- Claustrophobia
- Metal in the body (e.g., cardiac pacemakers, ferromagnetic implants)
- Pregnancy
The trial lasts approximately 8 months. It is split up into two periods of treatment. Each period consists of:
- 10 consecutive weekdays of cognitive treatment with tDCS plus memory and language therapy
- 8 evaluations each spanning two days
- two before therapy
- two after therapy
- two 1-month after therapy (virtual)
- two 3-months after therapy
Our facility is based in Baltimore and participants must travel to our facilities. However, we accept individuals from any location and are able to offer housing options.
As a participant, you can receive up to $2000 for your time and effort.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
