​​Neural noise, cognitive ageing and reserve​

​​Neural noise, cognitive ageing and reserve​

​​Investigating neural noise in cognitive ageing

About the study

​​This research project aims to understand how different patterns of brain activity influence thinking, memory, and other cognitive abilities in later life.

​All assessments are safe and non-invasive, and will include written and computerised cognitive tests, electroencephalography (EEG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Participants will be asked to attend two assessment sessions:

  • ​The first session will be conducted at the Adelaide University Magill Campus (St Bernards Rd) and will take around 3 hours.
  • ​The second session will be conducted at the Clinical and Research Imaging Centre at SAHMRI (North Terrace) and will take around 90 min.

Eligibility requirements

​​To be eligible, participants must:

  • ​Be healthy adults aged 65 years or older
  • ​Speak English fluently
  • ​Not hove dementia
  • ​Not have a neurological or psychiatric condition
  • ​Not be taking medications that affect brain or nerve function (e.g., antidepressants, sedatives, antipsychotics)
  • ​Not have a history of significant recreational drug use, smoking, or alcohol dependence
  • ​Have normal or corrected-to-normal hearing and vision
  • ​Not have contraindications to MRI (e.g., pacemaker or other implanted devices)​

Recruitment timeline

​​Start of recruitment: July 2026

​End of recruitment: February 2027

Benefits

​​As a thank you for your time and participation, eligible participants will receive a $100 Coles/Myer gift voucher at the end of their involvement.​

Contact details

​​For further information email ​​nncar-study@adelaide.edu.au​.

Ethics Protocol No.
​​The study has been approved by the Adelaide University Human Research Ethics Committee: 205568​.​