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A Graphene Far-infrared Intervention Study of Cognitive Status in Older Adults
Sponsor: Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Summary
This study was a 4-week facility-level cluster-controlled trial examining whether a graphene-based far-infrared intervention could improve cognitive status among older adults living in long-term care facilities. Five facilities were assigned to one of three study conditions: a graphene-based far-infrared intervention (GFII), a thermal-effects control (TEC) delivered using an electrically heated cap at the same nominal temperature, or a blank control condition without intervention. Participants in the GFII and TEC groups received one 40-minute session daily for 4 weeks. Cognitive outcomes were assessed at baseline, after approximately 2 and 4 weeks of intervention, and at a 4-week post-intervention follow-up. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were also assessed as exploratory outcomes, although they were not the primary focus of the study. The study aimed to examine whether GFII could improve cognitive status beyond the effects of thermal stimulation alone or no intervention.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
55 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
168
Start Date
2025-03-01
Completion Date
2025-05-11
Last Updated
2026-11-03
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Graphene-Based Far-Infrared Intervention
The GFII was delivered using a custom wearable cap comprising a flexible cap body with graphene-coated elements, a temperature controller, and an external power adapter. The cap covered the frontal, temporal, and occipital scalp regions and emitted far-infrared radiation primarily within the 4-14 μm range. The device was operated at a nominal temperature of 40°C. Participants received one 40-minute session daily for 4 weeks of active intervention under the assistance and supervision of trained caregivers.
Thermal-Effects Control
The thermal-effects control was delivered using a commercially available electrically heated cap without graphene-based far-infrared-emitting elements. The cap was operated at the same nominal temperature of 40°C and followed the same intervention schedule, 40-minute session duration, and caregiver-assistance procedures as the GFII condition.
Locations (1)
Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Beijing, Beijing Municipality, China