Zapping the brain to fight forgetfulness: new dementia trial launches
NCT ID NCT06877312
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a gentle electrical current applied to the scalp (called transcranial electrical stimulation) can improve memory and thinking in people with dementia. Two hundred participants will receive different types of stimulation (tACS or tRNS) while doing memory games on an iPad, for 4 weeks at a time, with breaks in between. The goal is to see if this painless, non-invasive approach can help with everyday cognitive function.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcranial electrical stimulation (tACS and tRNS) with cognitive exercises
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to temporarily boost memory and thinking skills in people with dementia.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage study with only 200 participants, and the effects may be small or not last beyond the treatment period. The stimulation may cause mild discomfort or tingling on the scalp.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Riverview Health Centre
RECRUITINGWinnipeg, Manitoba, R3L 2P4, Canada