Attention Impaired

The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to investigate the effects of group-based rhythm-based body percussion training on neuromotor performance, attention, and functionality in adolescents with mild intellectual disability. The study will be conducted in individuals aged 14-18 years with mild intellectual disability using a two-arm, parallel-group, evaluator-blind design. Participants will be assigned to experimental and control groups using a simple randomization method. The experimental group will receive structured body percussion training twice a week for 45 minutes over 8 weeks. This training consists of rhythmic patterns including clapping, knee tapping, chest tapping, finger snapping, and foot tapping, and will be presented as a progressively advancing program with metronome accompaniment. The control group will receive passive music listening without intervention for the same duration and frequency. Participants will be evaluated at two time points: before and after the intervention. Evaluation tools include: The tests cover neuromotor performance with the Minnesota Hand Skills Test and the Four Square Step Test, rhythm coordination with the Metronome Synchronization Test, attention with the Stroop Test, and functionality with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Chart 2.0.

The proposed study will evaluate a new approach to cognitive rehabilitation of mTBI using a brain stimulation technique called "Remotely Supervised Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation combined with Cognitive Training" (RS-tDCS+) which has shown promise for improving complex attention in both healthy and clinical populations. RS-tDCS+ is a home-based, low-risk, non-invasive technique that is designed to boost cognitive training by enhancing learning and the brain's ability to reorganize connections. This study will evaluate RS-tDCS+ for improving complex attention in Active Duty Service Members (ADSM) and Veterans with a history of mTBI. Different tests of complex attention and symptom questionnaires will be used to determine the effects of real versus sham (placebo) RS-tDCS+. Second, the investigators will investigate electrical and connectivity changes in the brain associated with RS-tDCS+ using electroencephalogram (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Third, the investigators will investigate the lasting effects of any observed changes by evaluating participants at 1 and 6 weeks post-treatment. Lastly, the investigators will explore the impact of individual differences (e.g., PTSD, depression, sleep quality, time since injury, baseline impairment, age, sex, ADSM versus Veteran) on treatment outcome.