How aging affects the ability to hear in noisy environments
Effects of aging on signal in noise processing
This study is looking at how hearing loss that comes with age affects how older adults understand sounds in noisy places, with the goal of finding new ways to help them hear and communicate better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003340 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how age-related hearing loss impacts the brain's ability to process sounds in noisy settings, which is a common challenge for older adults. The study aims to understand the neural mechanisms behind this decline in auditory processing and how it relates to cognitive deficits and mental health issues. By examining how the brain's coding strategies change with age, the researchers hope to develop new assistive technologies or therapies that can help improve hearing and communication for elderly individuals. Participants may undergo various auditory tasks to assess their hearing capabilities in different acoustic environments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related hearing loss or cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any hearing loss or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved hearing aids or therapies that enhance communication and mental health for older adults experiencing hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory processing in aging, suggesting that interventions may improve outcomes for older adults.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Recanzone, Gregg Howard — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Recanzone, Gregg Howard
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 below.