Investigating treatments for age-related hearing loss and balance issues in older veterans

Age Related Hearing Loss and Vestibular Dysfunction

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10954257

This study is looking for ways to help older veterans, aged 65 and up, who are dealing with hearing loss and balance issues by testing two possible treatments to see if they can slow down or lessen these problems, especially after being exposed to loud noises.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10954257 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on finding effective treatments for age-related hearing loss and balance disorders, particularly in veterans aged 65 and older. The study will explore the use of two potential treatments, rapamycin and 17-α-estradiol, to see how they can delay or reduce hearing loss associated with aging. Researchers will also examine the impact of these treatments when administered after noise exposure, which is common among veterans. The goal is to improve auditory and balance functions, enhancing the quality of life for older veterans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 65 and older who are experiencing age-related hearing loss or balance disorders.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without hearing loss or balance issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that significantly improve hearing and balance for older veterans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar treatments for age-related conditions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.