Fast Facts
Able to Undergo an MRI (ex. No Pacemakers or Aneurysm Clips)
Ages 40+ and Generally Healthy
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Boston, MA
Study Background
Researchers are studying how non-invasive brain stimulation affects memory, motivation, and brain function in older adults.
The Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit and Harvard Medical School are conducting a clinical research study using repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), a form of non-invasive brain stimulation. This technique gently alters brain activity in areas involved in memory, and researchers will assess its effects through cognitive testing and MRI brain imaging. The goal is to better understand how rTMS influences memory and brain networks, which could help inform future treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Participants will complete two rounds of rTMS over several weeks, with daily weekday visits during each treatment phase. The study includes baseline and evaluation visits with cognitive testing and MRI scans. All visits take place in person, with compensation provided for participation and travel costs.
Study Background
Researchers are studying how non-invasive brain stimulation affects memory, motivation, and brain function in older adults.
The Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit and Harvard Medical School are conducting a clinical research study using repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), a form of non-invasive brain stimulation. This technique gently alters brain activity in areas involved in memory, and researchers will assess its effects through cognitive testing and MRI brain imaging. The goal is to better understand how rTMS influences memory and brain networks, which could help inform future treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Participants will complete two rounds of rTMS over several weeks, with daily weekday visits during each treatment phase. The study includes baseline and evaluation visits with cognitive testing and MRI scans. All visits take place in person, with compensation provided for participation and travel costs.
Additional Information
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 40+
- Generally in good healthAble to undergo an MRI (ex. no pacemakers or aneurysm clips)
- Able to attend a total of 20 rTMS study visits (Monday through Friday)
- Able to speak English
- No history of unprovoked seizures or a first-degree relative with a history of unprovoked seizures
Baseline Visit:
- You’ll complete memory and thinking tests.
- You’ll have an MRI scan of your brain.
- This visit lasts about 6 hours.
First Round of rTMS Treatment:
- You’ll attend 10 daily sessions of rTMS (Monday–Friday).
- Each session lasts 2 hours.
- After these 10 sessions, you’ll have an evaluation visit with another MRI and cognitive tests (6 hours).
Two-Week Break
Second Round of rTMS Treatment:
- You’ll repeat the process: another baseline visit, 10 more rTMS sessions, and a final evaluation visit.
All study visits are in person.
Participants receive compensation for participating.
In addition to payment:
- Free parking is provided at the Charlestown Navy Yard during visits.
- Lunch is provided at each visit.
- Travel reimbursement is available for local participants, up to $500 total ($250 for each study phase). This can cover expenses like mileage, rental cars, and taxi/Uber rides, but itemized receipts are required.
- If you prefer public transportation, the Martinos Center is accessible via a free shuttle from Massachusetts General Hospital.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.