Spatial Memory based Cognitive Intervention for MCI patients

What is this Study about?

This randomized controlled study evaluates the efficacy of a hippocampus-targeted, computerized spatial memory intervention in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Participants (≥55 years) will be randomized to either (a) a spatial memory intervention program or (b) an active placebo. Primary outcomes are changes in memory and cognition from baseline to post-training and 6-month follow-up, assessed with standardized neuropsychological measures and validated spatial memory tasks. Secondary outcomes include everyday functioning, quality of life, perceived stress, and related psychosocial indices.  

A neuroimaging sub-study acquires structural MRI and task-based fMRI to quantify hippocampal morphometry and functional recruitment; we hypothesize training-related improvements will correlate with hippocampal structural/functional change. Exploratory biomarkers (lipids, glucose/insulin for HOMA-IR, cortisol) and polygenic risk scores for dementia are obtained to control inter-individual variability and potential moderators/mediators of training response. The central hypothesis is that sustained, strategy-level engagement of hippocampus-dependent spatial memory will improve cognitive performance in MCI and yield convergent MRI biomarker signatures, supporting experience-dependent plasticity and informing scalable, non-pharmacologic interventions for delaying cognitive decline. 

What Will Happen in This Study?

After completing a screening questionnaire, eligible participants will be randomly assigned to a spatial memory 

intervention or an active placebo condition. 

Participation includes 32 visits over 16 weeks, with 4 follow-up visits six months later: 

- 1st Evaluation (2 weeks) = 4 visits (~3h/visit, MRI + blood) 

- Cognitive Stimulation Period (12 weeks) = 24 visits (~1h each) 

- 2nd Evaluation (2 weeks) = 4 visits (~3h/visit, MRI + blood) 

- Last Evaluation - 6 months later (2 weeks) = 4 visits (~3h/visit, MRI) 

Evaluation sessions include questionnaires, computerized and paper memory tests, MRI scans and blood draw.

Who is Eligible to Participate in this Study?

- Aged 55 years and above 

- Have English or French as a primary language 

- Received a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) 

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