BCFS002007-JHU-Tsapkini-39-[landing Page] -

Aphasia
Research Study

Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a condition that gradually affects language and communication abilities. Researchers know that language therapy may help, but it is still unclear whether combining therapy with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a mild form of brain stimulation, can further improve language and memory skills. This study will examine whether tDCS paired with cognitive-language therapy can improve working memory, spelling, and naming abilities in people with PPA.

Fast Facts

Diagnosed with aphasia

No history of stroke

Compensation
up to $2,000

Conducted in
Baltimore, MD

Additional Information

Why is this study being done?

This study is being conducted to better understand Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) and to explore whether combining language therapy with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may help improve language, memory, and communication abilities.

Is this study for me?

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

Ages 50–80
Diagnosed with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) or dementia
Right-handed
Speak English proficiently
Minimum of a high school education

Exclusion Criteria:

History of stroke or other neurological disease, including vascular dementia
Uncorrected hearing or vision loss
Advanced dementia or severe language impairment
Left-handed individuals
Severe psychiatric disorders that may interfere with participation in the study

What will happen if I participate in the study?

Overall Duration

This study lasts about 2–3 weeks for the treatment portion, with follow-up evaluations at 1 month and 3 months after treatment. Participants will attend about 10–15 study sessions total, depending on scheduling and availability.

In-Lab Activities

Participants will visit the study site several times during the study. During these visits, they will complete language, memory, and thinking tasks such as repeating words or sentences, spelling words, naming pictures, reading, writing, and describing scenes. Some evaluations may be completed over multiple sessions or by Zoom if needed.
Participants will also receive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a mild form of brain stimulation. Small electrodes will be placed on the scalp while participants complete language activities. Sessions last about 20–30 minutes and take place 3–5 days per week during the treatment period.
Some participants may also complete MRI brain scans so researchers can study brain activity and changes related to treatment. Study visits may include audio or video recording of language tasks for research purposes.

At-Home Activities

Some follow-up visits may be completed by video conferencing for participants who live farther away. Participants may also be asked to wear an activity tracker, such as a FitBit, on their wrist or ankle for 2–3 weeks to measure activity and sleep patterns. The device will only collect movement and sleep information and will not record conversations or location data.

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

Participants may receive up to $2,000 for completing the study. Parking and meals may also be provided during study visits.

Will it cost me anything to participate in this study?

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.