RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Longitudinal Study Examining At-Home tDCS

This study is for people with Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia who are interested in using a treatment called Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) at home. Some people who tried tDCS in our lab found it helpful and want to continue using it. Since these devices can be bought, we're helping these individuals get their own tDCS machine and showing them how to use it safely. We'll then check in with them every month for at least two years to see how they're doing and if the treatment continues to help their symptoms. The main goal is to understand how well tDCS works when used at home for dementia symptoms.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Lady Davis Institute

Enrolment target

Start

22 Feb 2021

Estimated completion

31 Oct 2026

Alzheimer Disease

What is this study about?

You might be wondering what this study is all about. Well, it focuses on a technique called Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, or tDCS for short. This is a gentle, painless treatment where a very small electrical current is sent through the scalp to specific areas of the brain. Over the past ten years, some research has suggested that tDCS might help people with dementia, especially when it's used alongside brain training exercises.

In our own research lab, we've also seen some promising results. For example, we've noticed improvements in things like naming ability in people with dementia who received tDCS. Some people who took part in our previous studies were so happy with the results that they asked us if they could buy their own tDCS machines to use at home. Since these devices are available to buy, we decided to set up this study to help those who want to continue using tDCS themselves.

So, in this study, we'll guide you on which tDCS devices to get and train you on how to use them properly and safely at home. We'll then keep in touch with you once a month for at least two years. This will help us keep an eye on your progress and understand whether using tDCS at home can be a helpful way to manage symptoms of dementia.

Key takeaways

This study explores using tDCS at home for dementia.
Participants will be guided to purchase their own tDCS device.
Training on safe and proper tDCS use will be provided.
Monthly check-ins will track progress for at least two years.
Aimed at understanding tDCS effectiveness for home-based dementia care.
Open to people with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.

Who may be eligible?

To be able to join this study, you would need to have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, such as Primary Progressive Aphasia. This study is open to both men and women.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you have any metal in your head (like certain medical implants) or other health conditions that would make using the tDCS device unsafe, then you wouldn't be able to join. We need to make sure it's safe for everyone involved.

The study is for adults aged between 50 and 100 years old. If you fit these general descriptions, your doctors and the study team will be able to check if it's right for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Have you been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia (e.g., Primary Progressive Aphasia)?
Are you between 50 and 100 years old?
Are you able to use a tDCS device safely, without any metal in your head or other safety concerns?
Are you interested in learning how to use a tDCS device at home?
Are you able to provide monthly reports for at least two years?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to join this study, we will first help you choose and buy a suitable tDCS device for home use. We will then give you full training on how to use the device safely and correctly yourself. After you start using the tDCS at home, we will ask you to provide us with monthly reports for at least two years. These reports will help us understand how you are doing and whether the tDCS is helping with your symptoms over time. You will continue to use the tDCS device at home as part of your routine. The total duration of your participation will be at least two years.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of joining this study is that you might find the at-home tDCS treatment helps with your dementia symptoms, as some participants in our previous lab studies have reported. However, it's important to remember that there's no guarantee it will work for everyone, and it might not help your symptoms. As with any treatment involving electrical devices, there's a small potential for minor side effects, though we will provide thorough training to minimise any risks associated with using the device. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Perform Centre
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is tDCS?

tDCS stands for Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation. It's a non-invasive treatment that sends a very mild electrical current through the scalp to certain brain areas.

Will I have to pay for the tDCS machine?

Yes, as per the study design, you will be assisted in obtaining (purchasing) your own tDCS machine for home use.

How often will I use the tDCS machine?

The study will train you on how to administer tDCS properly, and we will monitor you monthly. The exact frequency of use will be part of the training.

What kind of reports will I need to send?

We will ask you for monthly reports on your condition and how you are feeling, which will help us monitor your progress.

What if I decide I don't want to continue?

You are free to stop participating in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your care.

How to find out more

Shelley Solomon

shelley.solomon2@mail.mcgill.ca 514-340-8222 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.