tDCS and Cognitive Efficiency in Ageing

The clinical trial protocol involves the recruitment of participants from three different groups: healthy older adults, individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Participants will be randomly assigned to either a treatment group or a control group. For the treatment group, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) will be administered over a specified period using a standard protocol involving the application of low-intensity electrical current (\< 2 mA) through electrodes placed on specific scalp areas. The duration and frequency of stimulation will be predetermined based on scientific literature and established safety recommendations. The control group will receive a sham procedure where a low-intensity current, having no effect on neuronal activity, will be applied to maintain treatment masking. Prior to commencing the intervention, a baseline assessment of participants' cognitive functions will be conducted using a battery of standardized tests, including measures of cognitive plasticity, memory, attention, executive functions, and other relevant cognitive abilities. During the intervention period, regular tDCS or placebo sessions will be conducted according to participants' assigned groups. Additionally, data on potential side effects and tolerability of the technique will be collected. At the end of the intervention period, a post-treatment assessment will be conducted to determine any changes in participants' cognitive functions. These data will be compared to baseline assessments to ascertain the intervention's efficacy. Furthermore, participants will be followed up for a period of at least one month after the intervention to evaluate the persistence of effects and any potential long-term effects. It is important to emphasize that this protocol will adhere to all ethical and safety regulations established by relevant regulatory authorities and ethics committees. Participants will be fully informed about the procedures and risks involved, and their informed consent will be obtained before their participation in the study.