The Application of Transcranial Electrical Stimulation to Improve Alzheimer Symptoms: A Case Report

Alzheimer disease (AD) a multifactorial complex disorder is accompanied by decline of brain functioning, progressive cognitive deficit and can effect on mental abilities. Loss of memory and forgetfulness is known as a sign of AD onset. Therefore, the faster diagnosis and treatment of amnesia can prevent AD progress. Recent studies have suggested different ways such as meditation, exercise, trying new tasks to improve memory. In addition some studies have claimed that transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) noninvasive technique is able to enhance memory and is safe for human use. In this case study we investigated the efficacy of the use of tDCS along with behavioral interventions in amnesia. The purpose of this study was to enhance the cognitive and memory functions of an individual by using tDCS. Thepatient was a 45-year-old woman and was chosen from clients who came to the neuroscience laboratory with a one-year history of memory problem. She had received 12 sessions of tDCS 3 times per week every other day. tDCS electrodes were placed based on the 10-20 EEGinternational system. Simultaneously, Cambridge brain sciences (CBS), Purdue pegboard test and Register maze memory test as behavioral interventions were used for memory and behavioral assessment and remediation. The referral was followed up for one year after tDCSapplication. The results of our study showed a positive effect of using combination of behavioral interventions and tDCS in order to improve memory and following that preventing AD. Further research is needed for study the effectiveness of tDCS for AD.