Improving Working Memory in Older Adults by Restoring Large-Scale Cortical Interactions
Overview
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Intervention
- Not specified
- Conditions
- Large-scale Physiological Foundations of Memory Decline in Aging Humans
- Sponsor
- Boston University Charles River Campus
- Enrollment
- 964
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Memory performance success (active stimulation condition)
- Status
- Completed
- Last Updated
- 9 months ago
Overview
Brief Summary
The research program will evaluate the theoretical claim that age-related memory and cognitive decline in humans result from the inefficient orchestration of rhythmic activity within large-scale cortical networks. The results will contribute to the basic science groundwork for developing future non-pharmacological interventions aimed at boosting memory and cognition in aging and clinical populations.
Detailed Description
We hypothesize that aged-related memory and cognitive impairments emerge from large-scale functional dysconnectivity, and by stimulating the brain noninvasively with extremely weak levels of electrical current, we may be able to re-synchronize connectivity and stabilize or improve memory and cognitive function, measured behaviorally. The experiments of this project are proposed as between-subjects, sham-controlled, and double-blind in design, and use noninvasive electroencephalographic (EEG) measurements of rhythmic brain activity. The experimental intervention involves the application of low-intensity, high-definition, transcranial electrical current stimulation while subjects perform a variety of computer-based tasks that probe memory and cognitive function.
Investigators
Robert Reinhart
Assistant Professor
Boston University Charles River Campus
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- Not provided
Exclusion Criteria
- Not provided
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Memory performance success (active stimulation condition)
Time Frame: During active intervention
The accuracy of task performance (in percentage correct unit) in the delayed-match-to-sample working memory paradigm
Memory performance speed (sham stimulation condition)
Time Frame: During sham intervention
The reaction time of task performance (in millisecond units) in the delayed-match-to-sample working memory paradigm
Memory performance success (sham stimulation condition)
Time Frame: During sham intervention
The accuracy of task performance (in percentage correct units) in the delayed-match-to-sample working memory paradigm
Memory performance speed (active stimulation condition)
Time Frame: During active intervention
The reaction time of task performance (in millisecond units) in the delayed-match-to-sample working memory paradigm