Yonsei Med J.  2024 Jun;65(6):341-347. 10.3349/ymj.2023.0430.

Effect of Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Cognitive Function in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Two-Week Intervention

• Park J
• Chung K
• Oh Y
• Kim KJ
• Kim CO
• Park JY

• KMID: 2555920
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2023.0430

Abstract

Purpose
Repeated transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is expected to have the potential to improve cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of at-home tDCS for elderly patients with MCI.
Materials and Methods
Patients aged 60–80 years, who maintained normal daily living but reported objective memory impairments, were enrolled. Active or sham stimulations were applied to the dorsal frontal cortex (left: anode; right: cathode) at home for 2 weeks. Changes in cognitive function were assessed using visual recognition tasks and the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), and safety and efficacy were assessed using self-reports and a remote monitoring application.
Results
Of the 19 participants enrolled, 12 participants were included in the efficacy analysis. Response times and MMSE scores significantly improved after active stimulation compared to the sham stimulation; however, there were no significant differences in the proportion of correct responses. The mean compliance of the efficacy group was 97.5%±4.1%. Three participants experienced burns, but no permanent sequelae remained.
Conclusion
This preliminary result suggests that home-based tDCS may be a promising treatment option for MCI patients; however, it requires more attention and technological development to address safety concerns.

Keyword

Transcranial direct current stimulation; mild cognitive impairment; hospital-based home care services; crossover design; electric stimulation