Zap your memory? scalp stimulation trial aims to fight forgetfulness
NCT ID NCT05289804
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested a non-invasive electrical stimulation device on the scalp in 80 adults aged 50+ with mild cognitive impairment. Participants learned word pairs while receiving either real or sham stimulation. Their memory was tested right after, and again at 7 and 28 days. The goal was to see if the stimulation could reduce long-term forgetting.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- non-invasive electrical stimulation of the scalp
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to boost memory in people with mild cognitive impairment.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-phase study with only 80 participants. The effect may be small or not last, and the stimulation might not work for everyone.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
TCIN
Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
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