Memory Research Study
Researchers at Boston University are conducting a study to assess the effectiveness of a novel, drug-free therapy for improving memory in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).
Fast Facts
Ages 50+
Diagnosed with mild Alzheimer's Disease (AD) or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Compensation Provided
Conducted in the Greater Boston Metropolitan Area
Study Background
Researchers at Boston University are conducting a study testing a new treatment for memory problems related to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
The study uses a safe, noninvasive method where a very weak electrical current is applied to the scalp to help improve memory.
The study includes one phone screening and two lab visits. During the phone screening, you’ll provide personal and medical information to check if you qualify. In the first lab visit, we will gather information about your memory and thinking using paper-and-pencil questionnaires, have you complete memory tasks on a computer, and record your brain activity using an elastic cap with sensors (EEG).
We will also apply a very mild electrical current to your scalp, which is barely noticeable, to target specific brain areas involved in memory. Each lab visit lasts about 4 hours, including time for questionnaires, setup, tasks, and clean-up.
Study Background
Researchers at Boston University are conducting a study testing a new treatment for memory problems related to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
The study uses a safe, noninvasive method where a very weak electrical current is applied to the scalp to help improve memory.
The study includes one phone screening and two lab visits. During the phone screening, you’ll provide personal and medical information to check if you qualify. In the first lab visit, we will gather information about your memory and thinking using paper-and-pencil questionnaires, have you complete memory tasks on a computer, and record your brain activity using an elastic cap with sensors (EEG).
We will also apply a very mild electrical current to your scalp, which is barely noticeable, to target specific brain areas involved in memory. Each lab visit lasts about 4 hours, including time for questionnaires, setup, tasks, and clean-up.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are conducting a study testing a new treatment for memory problems related to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 50+
- Diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
- No other conditions affecting cognition (e.g., stroke, TBI)
- Have normal or corrected-to-normal vision
- Not pregnant
- Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
- If Alzheimer’s, not taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors of cholinesterase inhibitors
Once enrolled in this study, it will include one phone screening and two lab visits.
- During the phone screening, you’ll provide personal and medical information to check if you qualify.
- In the lab visit, we will gather information about your memory and thinking using paper-and-pencil questionnaires, have you complete memory tasks on a computer, and record your brain activity using an elastic cap with sensors (EEG). We will also apply a very mild electrical current to your scalp, which is barely noticeable, to target specific brain areas involved in memory. The extremely weak stimulation is widely considered safe and there are no known adverse effects outside of the tingling sensations typically experienced under the sensors during the first 30 seconds of the session.
- Each lab visit lasts about 4 hours, including time for questionnaires, setup, tasks, and clean-up.
You’ll be paid $20 per hour, usually totaling $160 for the entire study.
We will provide transporation (e.g., Uber) to participants who require this option. However, this option is limited to a 30-min ride time to our lab location (111 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215).
