Improving hearing aid safety and sound quality based on ear size.
Official title: Improving Automated Hearing Aid Safety and Audibility; External-Ear Amplification Predictions Based on Height, Not Age
Funded at Central Michigan University · NIH-11060907 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make hearing aids work better by measuring the unique shape of each person's ear, so that the hearing aids can be programmed just right for them, helping both kids and adults with hearing loss hear more clearly and comfortably.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Central Michigan University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mount Pleasant, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $296,404 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC020699-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060907 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages experiencing hearing loss who use or are considering using hearing aids.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal hearing or those who do not use hearing aids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the programming of hearing aids by considering the unique external-ear amplification (EEA) that varies with the size and shape of an individual's ear. The study aims to address the common practice of using average EEA estimates, which can lead to significant amplification errors and dissatisfaction among users. By measuring each patient's specific EEA, the goal is to provide more accurate amplification settings, improving overall hearing aid performance and user experience. This approach could lead to better outcomes for both children and adults with hearing loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective hearing aids that provide better sound quality and safety for users.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that personalized approaches to hearing aid programming can significantly improve user satisfaction and auditory outcomes, indicating a promising direction for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grinn, Sarah — Central Michigan University
- Study coordinator: Grinn, Sarah
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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.