NCT06687161 · Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Treating Insomnia in Mild Cognitive Impairment
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to test a new way to improve sleep quality in persons living with mild cognitive impairment. The treatment combines a safe and gentle way to stimulate the brain, called transcranial magnetic stimulation, with a psychological treatment, called cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to test a new way to improve sleep quality in persons living with mild cognitive impairment. The treatment combines a safe and gentle way to stimulate the brain, called transcranial magnetic stimulation, with a psychological treatment, called cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.
Interventions
DEVICE
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy
Each treatment consists of 600 TMS pulses (\~3 minutes) applied to the L-DLPFC
BEHAVIORAL
Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
9-week fully-automated, Internet-delivered CBT-I program: SHUTi OASIS (Sleep Healthy Using the Internet for Older Adult Sufferers of Insomnia and Sleeplessness)
Primary outcome measures
Insomnia Severity Index
Time frame: Baseline, Week 3 (Post-TMS), Week 12 (Post-CBT-I), 6 months (follow-up)
The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) is a brief self-assessment tool used to measure the severity of insomnia. It consists of seven questions that evaluate sleep problems, their impact on daily life, and the individual's level of concern about their sleep issues. The total score helps to categorize the severity of insomnia from mild to severe.
Paired Associative Learning test (CANTAB)
Time frame: Baseline, Week 3, Week 12, 6 Months
The Paired Associative Learning (PAL) test is a computer-based cognitive assessment that evaluates memory and learning. In the test, participants are shown patterns and must remember the locations of these patterns on a screen. It is commonly used to assess spatial memory and detect early signs of memory-related conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Spatial Working Memory test (CANTAB)
Time frame: Baseline, Week 3, Week 12, 6 months
The Spatial Working Memory (SWM) test is a computer-based task used to assess the ability to retain and manipulate spatial information. Participants must find hidden tokens within a series of boxes while avoiding revisiting previously searched locations. This test measures executive function and memory, and is often used in research on conditions affecting cognitive function.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Aged 60 years or older
- Speak and read English
- Clinical diagnosis of MCI or Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI)-a perceived gradual worsening in cognitive ability relative to one's younger self, or peer group-reported by either the participant or informant
- Reported insomnia symptoms (sleep-onset and/or sleep maintenance) that cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning over the past three months
- Have access to an Internet-enabled computer or tablet at home, or ability to connect a BIDMC-provided tablet to the internet, with private space to complete cognitive testing
- Capable of and willing to provide written informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Evidence of significant cognitive impairment or dementia
- Contraindications for TMS or MRI
- Current psychological treatment for insomnia
- Uncontrolled moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea or other untreated sleep disorder (e.g., Restless Leg Syndrome, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder, parasomnia). Sleep apnea that is managed (e.g., regular use of a CPAP) and stable for ≥3 months is allowed.
- Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Lewy-Body disease, or other neurological condition known to impact sleep
- Current diagnosis of major psychiatric disorder (well-controlled depression or anxiety is permitted)
- Current opiate/opioid use
- Alcohol or drug abuse within the past year
- Irregular sleep schedule (bedtime before 8pm/after 2am OR wake time before 4am/after 10am), unless participant states they are willing and able to change if prompted.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Collaborators
University of Virginia
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations