Investigating how early hearing loss may relate to Alzheimer's disease

Early Age-Related Hearing Loss Investigation (EARHLI): A Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess Mechanisms Linking Early Age-Related Hearing Loss and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10911957

This study is looking at how using hearing aids might help people aged 55 to 75 with early hearing loss and mild memory issues, by seeing if better hearing can improve their thinking skills and social connections, possibly helping to prevent further memory decline.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10911957 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the connection between early age-related hearing loss and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It involves a randomized controlled trial where participants aged 55 to 75 with early-stage hearing loss and mild cognitive impairment will receive hearing aids to assess their impact on cognitive decline. The study aims to explore how improving hearing may enhance social engagement and brain connectivity, potentially preventing further cognitive deterioration. Participants will be monitored to gather data on the effectiveness of this intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 55 to 75 who have early-stage age-related hearing loss and mild cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have hearing loss or those with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cognitive decline in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested that hearing aids can improve social engagement and cognitive function, indicating potential success for this approach.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.