P785 - EFFECTS OF TDCS ON BASIC COGNITIVE ABILITIES OF PATIENTS WITH INITIAL DEMENTIA (ID 1851)
Abstract
Aims
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is based on the ability to modulate cortical activity and drive neuroplasticity mechanisms through low intensity continuous electrical currents in the brain. Studies point to benefits in the performance of cognitive functions for dementia patients. This study aims to verify whether the application of the tDCS technique in patients with initial dementia facilitates improvement in the scores of basic cognitive skills assessment tests.
Methods
Nine patients with a diagnosis of dementia were evaluated using MMSE, T@M and direct digits. 10 sessions of 20 minutes of tDCS were applied. In the stimulation protocol, the constant current was 2mA, the anode was positioned on the left frontotemporal region (F7) and the cathode on Fp2, right supraorbital area. The patients were evaluated before and after applying the intervention. Paired-Samples T Test were applied.
Results
Significant differences were obtained when comparing the means before and after the intervention in the tests: MMSE (p = .042; Xpre = 23.22, Xpost = 25.88), T@M (p = .018; Xpre = 27.11, Xpost = 32.33) and direct digits (p = .010; Xpre = 6.22, Xpost = 8.22).
Conclusions
The efficacy of tDCS for the improvement of basic cognitive abilities in patients with mild dementia is concluded; This could be a technique that facilitates the maintenance of other cognitive functions. In addition, the comparison with a control group to which sham is applied is proposed as a future line.
