How noise exposure affects balance and stability in older adults
Effects of Noise Exposure Across the Lifespan on Balance and Stability in Older Adults
This study is looking at how being around loud noises throughout life might affect balance and stability in older adults, which could lead to more falls and injuries, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how noise might impact their ability to stay steady on their feet.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Education and Research Association of Michigan NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11122324 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of lifetime noise exposure on balance and stability in older adults, focusing on how it may contribute to falls and injuries. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind noise-induced damage to the vestibular system, which is crucial for maintaining balance and orientation. By examining the relationship between noise exposure and vestibular dysfunction, the research seeks to identify how these factors accelerate age-related decline in stability. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate their balance and vestibular function in relation to their noise exposure history.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have experienced varying levels of noise exposure throughout their lives.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without significant noise exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing falls and enhancing stability in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: While the connection between noise exposure and vestibular dysfunction is emerging, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in human studies.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- Veterans Education and Research Association of Michigan — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stewart, Courtney Elaine — Veterans Education and Research Association of Michigan
- Study coordinator: Stewart, Courtney Elaine
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.