Cognitive Complaint

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether combining transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) with computerized cognitive training might help improve thinking abilities and mood. Participants will self-administer these treatment in their homes and undergo pre- and post-treatment assessments of thinking abilities and mood and brain MRIs.

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) is characterized by an alteration of the structure and function of small penetrating brain arteries. Highly prevalent in older individuals from the general population, it represents a leading cause of stroke and a major contributor to cognitive decline and risk of dementia. Better detection and management of covert cSVD would have a major impact on preventing disability and costs related to stroke, cognitive impairment and dementia. The aim of the present study is to identify novel electroencephalographic (EEG) biomarkers of the cognitive deficits associated with cSVD, and how these biomarkers and cognitive performance are affected by personalized cognitive training or transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), a non-invasvie brain stimulation technique.