NCT07002996 · RECRUITING
Spatial Memory Training and Cognitive Function
This trial tests a three-month spatial memory training program called SMIP in people already diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. Researchers will measure changes in spatial memory, hippocampal structure, and broader cognitive function before and after training, comparing participants who do the program against those who do not. Phase NA means this is a behavioral intervention study, not a drug trial — no medication is involved.
Eligibility criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 55 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.
The sponsor's own eligibility wording, lightly reformatted. The study team makes the final eligibility decision — worth discussing with your doctor.
Eligibility criteria as of 2025-07-23