Investigating tDCS for people with Alzheimer's Disease or Primary Progressive Aphasia

What is this Study about?

We are conducting three separate studies to explore the effects of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease or Primary Progressive Aphasia. tDCS is a non-invasive therapy that uses low electrical currents to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Previous research has suggested that tDCS can improve symptoms such as language difficulties and may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.

Our studies aim to investigate these effects in different contexts, including language therapy and overall mental abilities. Upon completion, participants will receive their study results to help guide their decisions about whether tDCS could be part of a long-term therapy plan.

What Will Happen in This Study?

Study 1: Language Improvement tDCS-Therapy for people with Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Description: Participants will complete three rounds of language therapy, each paired with brain stimulation. Each round consists of multiple stimulation sessions spread over three weeks. Two rounds will use active stimulation at different intensities, while one will use a placebo. This study aims to improve naming ability in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Time Commitment: Over seven months, you'll take part in three rounds of stimulation sessions. Each round consists of nine stimulation sessions and three evaluations, spread over three weeks—meaning many days with no sessions at all. Most sessions last just 90 minutes, and never more than two hours. Plus, after each round, you’ll have a full two-month break to go about your normal routine.

Study 2: tDCS Language Enhancement for people with Primary Progressive Aphasia

  • Description: Participants will complete two rounds of brain stimulation aimed at boosting language abilities in individuals with Primary Progressive Aphasia. Each round consists of multiple stimulation sessions spread over three weeks. One round will use active stimulation, while the other will use a placebo.
  • Time Commitment: Over six months, you'll participate in just two rounds of stimulation sessions with a long three-month break in between. Each round lasts only three weeks, with 15 sessions scheduled Monday to Friday—giving you weekends off. Evaluations take place the week before and after, but most sessions are just 90 minutes, never more than two hours.

Study 3: Boosting Overall Mental Function with tDCS for people with Alzheimer's Disease

  • Description: Participants will complete three rounds of brain stimulation aimed at improving general cognition—everyday thinking skills like memory, attention, and problem-solving. Each round consists of multiple stimulation sessions spread over three weeks. Two rounds will use active stimulation at different intensities, while one will use a placebo.
  • Time Commitment: Over seven months, you'll take part in three rounds of stimulation sessions. Each round consists of nine stimulation sessions and three evaluations, spread over three weeks—meaning many days with no sessions at all. Most sessions last just 90 minutes, and never more than two hours. Plus, after each round, you’ll have a full two-month break to go about your normal routine.

Who is Eligible to Participate in this Study?

Person living with Alzheimer's disease

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