Research Update - March 2025

🧠 New Study Reveals tDCS Can Boost Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

At ZipStim, we believe in the power of neurostimulation to support brain health across the lifespan. A new 2025 clinical trial led by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has provided compelling evidence that tDCS can improve memory and attention in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—a condition often considered a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease.

📚 Study Highlights

The peer-reviewed study, published in JAMA Neurology (February 2025), enrolled 78 older adults diagnosed with amnestic MCI. Participants underwent 10 sessions of anodal tDCS targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), paired with computerized cognitive training.

Key protocol features:

• Current: 2 mA

• Duration: 20 minutes/day

• Frequency: 5 sessions/week for 2 weeks

• Stimulation site: F3 (left DLPFC), guided by EEG 10–20 system

• Design: Randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial

🔍 Results

The combination of tDCS and cognitive training led to:

• Significant improvement in working memory and verbal recall compared to sham

• Improved sustained attention and task-switching abilities

• Enhanced functional connectivity in frontoparietal cognitive networks (as shown by fMRI)

• No serious adverse effects, confirming the safety and tolerability of home-like application

Most notably, improvements were maintained at 3-month follow-up, suggesting durable neuroplastic effects.

🧬 Why This Matters

Cognitive decline is a growing public health concern, especially as the population ages. While there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, early intervention in the MCI stage can potentially delay progression and preserve independence.

This study supports what we at ZipStim have long emphasized: tDCS, when used under clinical guidance, is a powerful tool to support brain function, especially when combined with targeted cognitive activity.

💡 What It Means for ZipStim Clients

We’re excited to incorporate this research into our services for older adults experiencing memory concerns. ZipStim’s physician-supervised home-based tDCS solution can:

• Deliver evidence-based protocols modeled after this study

• Pair stimulation sessions with custom cognitive training tools

• Support remote progress tracking and safety checks

Whether you’re experiencing early signs of memory loss or looking to support a loved one’s cognitive health, tDCS offers a safe, non-invasive, and proactive approach.

🧠 Final Thoughts

This landmark study further validates the clinical promise of tDCS for cognitive aging. At ZipStim, we’re committed to translating neuroscience into real-world care—empowering individuals to protect and enhance their brain health.

📅 Interested in tDCS for memory support?

Book your initial consultation with our team of physicians and neuroscientists today.

Reference:

Chen, H. et al. (2025). “Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Plus Cognitive Training for Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” JAMA Neurology, 82(2), 119-128.