Understanding how people with Down syndrome hear and understand speech

SPEECH PERCEPTION AND AUDITORY ABILITIES IN INFANTS, CHILDREN, AND ADULTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME

['FUNDING_R01'] · FATHER FLANAGAN'S BOYS' HOME · NIH-11218518

This study is looking at how people with Down syndrome, from babies to adults, hear and understand speech, especially in noisy places, to learn more about their communication skills and how hearing loss might impact them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorFATHER FLANAGAN'S BOYS' HOME (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOYS TOWN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11218518 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the speech perception and auditory abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, including infants, children, and adults. It aims to identify how these individuals perceive sounds and understand speech, particularly in challenging listening environments. The study will assess their ability to discriminate between different speech sounds and how hearing loss may affect their communication skills. By examining these factors, the research seeks to uncover the developmental milestones related to hearing and speech in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants, children, and adults diagnosed with Down syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have any auditory processing issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication strategies and interventions for individuals with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding auditory processing in neurotypical individuals can inform strategies for those with developmental delays, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

BOYS TOWN, 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.