Improving speech clarity for people with Parkinson's disease using amplification devices

Speech Amplification Devices for Parkinson disease: Talker- and Technology-Driven Enhancements

NIH-funded research Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences · NIH-11044448

This study is looking at how speech amplification devices can help people with Parkinson's disease speak more clearly, and it’s for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills while using these devices along with some helpful speech techniques.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHenry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Lansing, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044448 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how speech amplification devices can enhance communication for individuals with Parkinson's disease, a condition that often leads to difficulties in speaking clearly. The study aims to understand how these devices work in conjunction with behavioral speech strategies to improve speech clarity. Participants will be evaluated on their speech using both their normal speaking style and a clearer, more articulated style while using the amplification devices. The goal is to identify the best ways to use these devices to support effective communication in daily life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience difficulties with speech clarity.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Parkinson's disease or those who do not experience speech difficulties may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the ability of individuals with Parkinson's disease to communicate more effectively in their daily interactions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that speech amplification devices can improve communication outcomes for individuals with speech impairments, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

East Lansing, 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.