Alzheimer’s & MCI Research Study
Researchers at Boston University are conducting a clinical research study to better understand and improve memory in individuals with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Fast Facts
Diagnosed with mild Alzheimer's Disease (AD) or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Ages 50+
Participants will be compensated $20/hr
Conducted in
Boston, MA
Study Background
Boston University researchers are conducting a paid clinical study on memory in Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment.
Memory difficulties associated with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are linked to changes in brain function that affect learning and recall. These changes may be related to alterations in brain networks involved in memory processing. In this study, we aim to learn more about a safe, noninvasive treatment designed to improve memory in individuals diagnosed with mild AD or MCI. By measuring memory performance and brain activity, we seek to better understand how this intervention influences cognitive function.
Eventually, the findings of this study may help inform new, drug-free approaches for treating memory problems and improving quality of life for individuals living with mild Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment.
Study Background
Boston University researchers are conducting a paid clinical study on memory in Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment.
Memory difficulties associated with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are linked to changes in brain function that affect learning and recall. These changes may be related to alterations in brain networks involved in memory processing. In this study, we aim to learn more about a safe, noninvasive treatment designed to improve memory in individuals diagnosed with mild AD or MCI. By measuring memory performance and brain activity, we seek to better understand how this intervention influences cognitive function.
Eventually, the findings of this study may help inform new, drug-free approaches for treating memory problems and improving quality of life for individuals living with mild Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are working to better understand memory difficulties in adults diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). We aim to study how brain activity related to memory and cognition differs in individuals with AD or MCI by measuring brain signals during memory tasks. Memory impairments are linked to changes in brain networks involved in learning and recall, and this study will examine these neural processes using noninvasive brain monitoring techniques.
We also seek to determine whether a safe, noninvasive brain stimulation treatment can improve memory performance. To do this, we use neuroscience-guided methods that target specific brain areas involved in memory function. The goal of this work is to advance drug-free treatment approaches that may help improve memory and cognitive functioning in individuals with mild AD or MCI.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age 50 or older
- Diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
- Able to complete memory tasks and study procedures
- Normal or corrected-to-normal vision
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other conditions that permanently affect cognition
- Serious or unstable neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, brain tumor)
- Significant vision or hearing impairments that would interfere with study participation
- MRI contraindications, including metal in the body or claustrophobia
- Inability to understand or provide informed consent
The entire study takes place over a short period and includes a screening call and two in-person visits. Once enrolled, the study involves:
In the lab:
Two in-person study visits at Boston University, each lasting approximately four hours. During these visits, you will complete memory and thinking assessments, questionnaires, and computer-based tasks. Your brain activity will be recorded using EEG, and a very mild, noninvasive electrical stimulation will be applied to the scalp to target brain areas involved in memory.
From home:
One phone screening session to determine eligibility. No additional at-home or app-based activities are required.
Participants are compensated $20 per hour, with total compensation up to $340 for completing the study. Free parking is available at the study site. Limited transportation reimbursement may also be available for eligible participants. Transportation assistance (such as Uber) is limited to trips within 30 minutes of the study location.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.