Exploring how aging affects speech comprehension and hearing loss

Understanding Individual Differences in Acoustic-Phonetic and Contextual Cue Use In Aging

NIH-funded research University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-10887455

This study is looking at how older adults with hearing loss understand speech differently, focusing on whether they use hints from the situation or sounds to help them understand what’s being said, so we can find better ways to support their hearing needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Connecticut Storrs NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887455 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how individual differences in older adults influence their ability to understand speech, particularly in the context of age-related hearing loss. It examines whether some individuals rely more on contextual cues while others depend on acoustic-phonetic cues to comprehend speech. The study involves testing participants through various tasks, including audiometric tests and EEG recordings, to identify patterns in cue usage and their impact on speech comprehension. By understanding these differences, the research aims to inform more tailored treatment strategies for hearing loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 75 and above who are experiencing varying degrees of hearing loss.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any hearing loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment plans for older adults experiencing hearing loss, enhancing their communication abilities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding speech comprehension through similar methodologies, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Storrs-Mansfield, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.