Understanding how older adults process language differently than younger adults

Prediction in Language Across the Lifespan

['FUNDING_R15'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, MERCED · NIH-10291114

This study looks at how older adults understand and predict language compared to younger adults, to see if age affects their ability to guess what comes next in conversations, which could help improve communication for seniors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, MERCED (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MERCED, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10291114 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how language comprehension changes with age, particularly focusing on older adults' ability to predict upcoming language inputs compared to younger adults. It explores two main theories: one suggesting that older adults have a decline in predictive abilities due to aging, and another proposing that their predictions are simply different due to their extensive language experience. By analyzing language processing through various experimental methods, the study aims to uncover the nuances of language prediction across different age groups. This could lead to better understanding and interventions for language comprehension in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are interested in language comprehension and may experience challenges in understanding language.

Not a fit: Patients who are not older adults or those without any language comprehension issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of language processing in older adults, potentially leading to improved communication strategies and interventions for age-related language impairments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying results regarding language processing in older adults, indicating that this area is still being explored and holds potential for new insights.

Where this research is happening

MERCED, 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.