How language and hearing loss affect cognitive decline in Hispanic adults
Official title: The role of language acculturation in the hearing loss-cognition association among Hispanics in the US
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11178746 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how speaking English and hearing loss might affect memory and thinking skills in Hispanic adults over 65, and it hopes to find ways to help improve their brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $184,219 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG089091-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178746 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Hispanic adults aged 65 and older who experience hearing loss and have low language acculturation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have hearing loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between language acculturation, hearing loss, and cognitive decline among Hispanic adults aged 65 and older. It focuses on understanding how low language acculturation may hinder participation in activities that stimulate cognitive function, potentially accelerating cognitive decline. The study will analyze data from two significant studies involving Hispanic populations to explore these associations and the impact of hearing aids on cognitive health. By identifying these connections, the research aims to inform interventions that could improve cognitive outcomes for this demographic.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cognitive decline in Hispanic adults through better access to hearing aids and culturally relevant interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that addressing hearing loss can slow cognitive decline, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez Amezcua, Pablo — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Martinez Amezcua, Pablo
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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.