Investigating cochlear implants' effects on cognitive health in older adults with hearing loss
Official title: The Effectiveness of Cochlear Implants in Real-World Settings for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Older Adults with Age-Related Hearing Loss
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10983398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cochlear implants and hearing aids might help older adults with age-related hearing loss by seeing if these devices can improve their thinking skills and daily life, especially for those who might be at risk of developing dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $783,083 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG085277-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who experience age-related hearing loss and may have mild cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have any hearing loss or cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how cochlear implants and hearing aids can impact cognitive function in older adults suffering from age-related hearing loss. By examining real-world data, the study aims to assess how these devices influence daily activities and cognitive decline, particularly the progression from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Participants will include individuals aged 65 and older, with varying levels of cognitive health, to understand the broader implications of hearing loss on mental well-being.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive health and quality of life for older adults with hearing loss through better hearing interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a strong link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, suggesting that interventions like cochlear implants may have beneficial effects, although this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dunn, Camille C — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Dunn, Camille C
Related research
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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.