Improving communication for older veterans with hearing loss in emergency departments

Hearing Impairment, Strategies and Outcomes in VA Emergency Departments

NIH-funded research VA Medical Center · NIH-10923828

This study is looking at how giving hearing devices to older veterans with hearing loss in VA Emergency Departments can help them better understand medical instructions and have a better experience while getting care.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10923828 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how providing hearing assistance devices to older veterans with hearing loss in VA Emergency Departments can enhance their understanding of medical instructions and improve their overall care experience. The study focuses on the challenges faced by older adults, particularly those who arrive at the emergency department without their hearing aids, in a noisy environment that complicates communication. By testing the effectiveness of these devices, the research aims to ensure that patients comprehend critical discharge instructions, which can prevent unnecessary repeat visits and hospitalizations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older veterans aged 65 and above who experience hearing impairment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have hearing loss or are younger than 65 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve communication and health outcomes for older veterans with hearing loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that improving communication in healthcare settings can lead to better patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-13 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.