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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction dementia Mixed Dementias

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Riverview Health Centre

    RECRUITING

    Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3L 2P4, Canada

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-••••