JAMA Psychiatry Author Interviews Slowing Cognitive Decline in Major Depressive Disorder and Mild Cognitive Impairment
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Oct 30, 2024 Benoit H. Mulsant, MD, MS, and Tarek K. Rajji, MD, both from the Toronto Dementia Research Alliance, dive into groundbreaking research on cognitive decline linked to major depressive disorder and mild cognitive impairment. They discuss innovative treatments, like transcranial direct current stimulation, and the significance of combining cognitive remediation with emerging therapies. Key findings reveal how these interventions promote neuroplasticity and enhance cognitive function. The conversation also touches on the role of genetics in Alzheimer’s and the pressing need for preventive strategies in vulnerable populations.
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Cognitive Decline in MDD and MCI
- Cognitive decline is linked to both mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and major depressive disorder (MDD).
- Individuals with MDD are at a higher risk of developing dementia, even after remission.
CR and tDCS Overview
- Cognitive remediation (CR) involves computerized exercises and strategy discussions for real-world application.
- Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) enhances brain excitability, particularly in the frontal region.
Rationale for Combining Treatments
- Combining CR and tDCS was hypothesized to produce better outcomes than either treatment alone.
- Prior research showed modest effects for each individual treatment.