University of Tasmania
Browse

File(s) under permanent embargo

Does transcranial direct current stimulation enhance cognitive and motor functions in the ageing brain? A systematic review and metaanalysis

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 15:00 authored by Jeffery SummersJeffery Summers, Kang, N, Cauraugh, JH
The use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to enhance cognitive and motor functions has enjoyed a massive increase in popularity. Modifying neuroplasticity via non-invasive cortical stimulation has enormous potential to slow or even reverse declines in functions associated with ageing. The current meta-analysis evaluated the effects of tDCS on cognitive and motor performance in healthy older adults. Of the 81 studies identified, 25 qualified for inclusion. A random effects model meta-analysis revealed a significant overall standardized mean difference equal to 0.53 (SE = 0.09; medium heterogeneity: I2 = 57.08%; and high fail-safe: N = 448). Five analyses on moderator variables indicated significant tDCS beneficial effects: (a) on both cognitive and motor task performances, (b) across a wide-range of cognitive tasks, (c) on specific brain areas, (d) stimulation offline (before) or online (during) the cognitive and motor tasks. Although the meta-analysis revealed robust support for enhancing both cognitive and motor performance, we outline a number of caveats on the use of tDCS.

Funding

Australian Research Council

History

Publication title

Ageing Research Reviews

Volume

25

Pagination

42-45

ISSN

1568-1637

Department/School

School of Psychological Sciences

Publisher

Elsevier Sci Ireland Ltd

Place of publication

Ireland

Rights statement

© 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Health related to ageing

Usage metrics

    University Of Tasmania

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC