Understanding communication in people with ALS

Evaluating Verbal Communication in Structured Interactions: Theoretical and Clinical Implications

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11047672

This study looks at how people with ALS talk during conversations to better understand the communication difficulties they and their caregivers face, with the goal of finding ways to help improve their ability to communicate as the disease progresses.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11047672 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) communicate during structured interactions. It aims to enhance our understanding of communication challenges faced by people with ALS and their caregivers. By studying these interactions, the research seeks to develop clinical interventions that can improve verbal communication despite the progressive nature of the disease. The approach includes analyzing conversations at various levels of language structure to identify effective strategies for supporting communication.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis who experience communication difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients with communication disorders unrelated to ALS may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication strategies for patients with ALS, enhancing their quality of life and interactions with caregivers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding communication disorders, but this specific approach focusing on ALS is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

University Park, 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.
Conditions Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease
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.