Understanding how individuals with profound intellectual disability respond and communicate
Official title: Measuring Responsivity in Individuals with Profound Intellectual Disability
Funded at Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-10948744 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to understand how people with profound intellectual disabilities think and respond, so we can better support their needs and make sure their voices are heard.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $170,424 |
| NIH project number | 1K23HD115865-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948744 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with profound intellectual disability who require assistance with self-care and communication.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild intellectual disabilities or those who do not have significant cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing effective ways to measure cognition and responsiveness in individuals with profound intellectual disability (PID). It aims to create tools that can accurately assess the cognitive abilities of this population, which is often overlooked in clinical settings. The project will involve both qualitative and quantitative methods to ensure that the measures are sensitive to the unique needs of individuals with PID. Additionally, the research will emphasize collaboration with patient advocates to ensure diverse representation and ethical considerations in the study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better assessment tools that improve clinical care and educational planning for individuals with profound intellectual disability.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest that measuring responsivity is a promising approach, indicating that similar research efforts may have shown success in understanding cognitive functioning in this population.
Where this research is happening
-
Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ludwig, Natasha — Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
- Study coordinator: Ludwig, Natasha
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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.