Investigating how hearing loss affects brain health in midlife adults

Evaluating the associations of hearing loss with cognitive and brain health outcomes in midlife

['FUNDING_R21'] · KAISER FOUNDATION RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-10984394

This study is looking at how hearing loss might affect brain health in adults between 45 and 65 years old, to see if improving hearing could help lower the risk of Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorKAISER FOUNDATION RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10984394 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the potential link between hearing loss and cognitive health in adults aged 45 to 65. It aims to determine if hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, focusing on midlife as a critical period for intervention. The study will analyze data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, which includes diverse populations, to fill existing knowledge gaps about hearing loss and cognition. By understanding these associations, the research seeks to inform strategies for preventing dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include midlife adults aged 45 to 65 who may be experiencing hearing loss.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 45 or do not have any hearing loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions that help prevent cognitive decline and dementia in midlife adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that addressing hearing loss in older adults may improve cognitive outcomes, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach focused on midlife.

Where this research is happening

Oakland, 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.