Shocking news: brain zaps may ward off dementia

NCT ID NCT02386670

Ongoing Prevention Sponsor: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This 7-year study tests whether a combination of mild electrical brain stimulation (tDCS) and computer-based memory exercises can slow mental decline and prevent Alzheimer's dementia. It involves 375 older adults with mild cognitive impairment or depression (both risk factors for Alzheimer's). Participants receive either real or sham (placebo) stimulation plus real or sham cognitive training, and their thinking skills are tracked over time.

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 cognitive remediation
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to slow memory loss and prevent Alzheimer's in high-risk older adults.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial, and the intervention is complex—results may not show clear benefit, or the effect may be too small to matter. The sham control helps, but real-world use is uncertain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction major depressive disorder Pathologic Complete Response Recurrence Alzheimer disease prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER, RECURRENT, IN REMISSION MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER, SINGLE EPISODE, IN FULL REMISSION MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
St. Michael's Hospital

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Sunnybrook Heath Sciences Centre

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
University Health Network

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

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