Device-based rehabilitation for veterans with functional hearing difficulties
Official title: Evaluating Device-based Rehabilitation for Veterans with Functional Hearing Difficulties: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Funded at Portland VA Medical Center · NIH-11323506 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A randomized trial tests whether devices designed to aid people with normal hearing thresholds can improve day-to-day hearing and communication for veterans seeking care at VA clinics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004791-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11323506 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 and older who are veterans with self-reported functional hearing difficulties but normal audiometric thresholds seeking care at VA audiology clinics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss confirmed by audiometry or those not seeking device-based rehabilitation may derive little or no benefit.
What this research studies
Many veterans report hearing and communication problems even when audiograms look normal. This study compares device-based rehabilitation options against standard care to see which approach helps with real-world listening and quality of life. Participants will be adults with self-reported functional hearing difficulties and normal-looking hearing thresholds, recruited through VA audiology clinics in Portland. The trial aims to provide clear guidance on whether these devices provide meaningful benefit beyond reassurance and general communication tips. Results could influence how VA clinicians manage functional hearing deficits in veterans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could lead to more effective rehabilitation options for veterans with functional hearing difficulties, improving daily communication and satisfaction with care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown mixed results; this trial seeks to provide clearer evidence on functional outcomes for device-based approaches.
Where this research is happening
-
Portland VA Medical Center
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Papesh, Melissa — Portland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Papesh, Melissa
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.