Exercise plus brain stimulation shows promise for memory loss

NCT ID NCT03670615

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested whether combining exercise with a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS can improve memory in 60 older adults with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. Participants exercised and received either real or sham tDCS. The goal was to see if the combo helps recognition and recall memory. Results are still being analyzed.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and exercise
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to ease memory problems in early Alzheimer's or mild cognitive impairment.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study (60 people) with no phase, so results are very early. The memory benefits may be small or not last, and tDCS can cause mild scalp discomfort.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Cognitive Dysfunction Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DISEASE MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Toronto, Ontario, M3H0A7, Canada

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