Spatial Memory Training and Cognitive Function

Launched by DOUGLAS MENTAL HEALTH UNIVERSITY INSTITUTE · May 31, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether a special memory training program can help improve memory and brain function in people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). MCI is a condition where individuals experience memory problems that are noticeable but not severe enough to interfere with daily life. The researchers want to see if a 3-month program focused on spatial memory—how we remember where things are—can make a positive difference in the brain area important for memory called the hippocampus. Participants will take memory tests before and after the training to see if there are any improvements.

To be eligible for this study, participants should be at least 60 years old, speak English or French, and have a diagnosis of MCI. However, individuals with certain health issues, recent significant medical conditions, or specific medication use may not qualify. If you join the study, you can expect to participate in memory training sessions over three months, alongside regular assessments to track your progress. This trial is currently not recruiting, but it aims to better understand how memory training could help in preventing or slowing down conditions like Alzheimer's disease in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age 60 years and above.
• • 2. Primary language is English or French.
• • 3. Individuals having received a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• 1. Self-reported having either of the following:
• • Current post-traumatic stress disorder and/or generalized anxiety disorder; Substance use disorder; Significant heart disease (i.e., stroke occurring during 5 years prior to study assessment or cardiac disease non-stabilized with medication); Severe Depression, or a Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) score greater than 12; Current insomnia disorder.
• • 2. Current medications for sleep problems, or use of medications that affect sleep.
• • 3. Use of antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication for less than 3 months prior to study entry.
• • 4. Use of analgesics with codeine (or other opioids).
• • 5. Use of antipsychotic medication (past or current).
• • 6. Having undergone brain surgery or ECT.
• • 7. Self-reported colour-blindness.
• • 8. General anesthesia in the past year.
• • 9. Current smoker.
• • 10. Suspected or confirmed traumatic brain injury during the last 24 months.
• • 11. Motion sickness or intolerant to virtual reality tasks.
• • 12. Cholesterol or hypertension medication for less than 3 months or changes expected within the next 9 months.
• • 13. History or presence of neurological or psychiatric disorders (other than MCI) that in the opinion of the investigator may compromise patient safety or study objectives.
• • 14. Current severe medical conditions (e.g. untreated diabetes, cancer) that in the opinion of the investigator may compromise patient safety or study objectives.
• • 15. For female participants, severe menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes (determined from the Greene climacteric scale - any participants scoring over 15 is excluded).
• • 16. Use of computer games that are designed to help with memory or general cognition.
• • 17. Presence of any medical or psychological condition that, in the opinion of the principal investigator, may compromise the study objectives.
• • 18. Presence of contra-indications for MRI scanning.