Approximately 750,000 Canadians are living with a memory problem, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer’s Dementia. A recent or remote depression constitutes one of the largest risk factors for declines in memory and thinking. By the time Alzheimer’s Dementia or a related disorder is diagnosed, the brain has been exposed to substantial damage that limits the usefulness of any currently available treatment options. Finding ways to prevent these issues may be the best strategy to avoid the development of decline in older age.
The current study aims to evaluate a preventative intervention for declines in memory and thinking in older people using a combination of brain stimulation and computerized brain training. The study consists of:
- A baseline visit to explain the details of the study and to get more information about any current and past mental health issues and problems with memory and thinking that you may experience (approximately 3 hours)
- 8-weeks of group classes that uses a combination of brain stimulation and brain training computerized tasks (2 hours per day) and 1 week of classes every 6 months thereafter (1.5 hours per day)
- Follow-up appointments every year, including repeated testing related to memory and thinking and a clinical assessment (approximately one day)
In order to be eligible to participate in this ground-breaking research, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be 60 years and older with memory problems or 65 years and older with a history of depression
- Availability of a study partner that can comment on your day-to-day activities
- No previous diagnosis of any other mental disorders (for instance schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
- Not currently abusing alcohol or any other substances
- No unstable medical conditions (for instance a new diagnosis of cancer)
- No pace-maker
The study will provide compensation for your time.
If interested, please contact:
Phone: 416-583-1350
Email: PACT.MD@camh.ca