Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation to Improve Memory & Movement: HomeStim Research Study

Harvard faculty and researchers at Hebrew SeniorLife are evaluating the effects of therapeutic at-home non-invasive brain stimulation for improving memory and mobility in older adults diagnosed with cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, or a related dementia. Join our paid study today!

Fast Facts

Ages 55+

Experience Mild to Moderate Memory Difficulties

Compensation Provided

Conducted in Boston, MA

Study Background

Our researchers are exploring the potential of a non-invasive type of brain stimulation called transcranial electrical stimulation, or tES, for improving memory, thinking, and movement in individuals with dementia. 

Non-invasive brain stimulation is a safe and painless technology that sends very small electrical currents to the brain through the scalp. Investigators believe that these currents may help improve memory and balance in older adults. 

The purpose of this study is to determine whether receiving tES from the comfort of your own home can help reduce memory and movement difficulties. As part of your enrollment in this study, you will need to select someone who will administer the stimulation for you during each treatment session. This can be your spouse, family member, friend, or neighbor. 

Your participation in this study may help researchers improve treatment approaches for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease in the future. Further research and join our compensated study today!

Study Background

Our researchers are exploring the potential of a non-invasive type of brain stimulation called transcranial electrical stimulation, or tES, for improving memory, thinking, and movement in individuals with dementia. 

Non-invasive brain stimulation is a safe and painless technology that sends very small electrical currents to the brain through the scalp. Investigators believe that these currents may help improve memory and balance in older adults. 

The purpose of this study is to determine whether receiving tES from the comfort of your own home can help reduce memory and movement difficulties. As part of your enrollment in this study, you will need to select someone who will administer the stimulation for you during each treatment session. This can be your spouse, family member, friend, or neighbor. 

Your participation in this study may help researchers improve treatment approaches for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease in the future. Further research and join our compensated study today!

Additional Information

The purpose of this study is to find out whether non-invasive brain stimulation delivered at home can help improve memory loss and mobility symptoms in adults with dementia. 

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

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 55+
  • Experiencing mild to moderate cognitive difficulties
  • Able to walk around independently and without assistance
  • Able to travel to Boston for study visits

Once enrolled, this study involves:

  • In-person visit to determine eligibility
  • An electroencephalogram (EEG) test to observe brain activity
  • Baseline assessments, including cognitive, mood, mobility, and quality-of-life measures, and training on how to give the home-based brain stimulation treatment (tES) 
  • 1 month of home-based tES (5 days/week for 4 weeks)
  • Follow-up assessment after the last day of stimulation
  • 3-month follow-up assessment after 3 months of no tES
  • 6-month follow-up assessment after 6 months of no tES

Compensation is provided up to $625 for your participation. 

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