Using computer speech analysis to diagnose Alzheimer's and other neurocognitive disorders
Official title: Computational Speech Analysis in Alzheimer's Disease and Other Neurocognitive Disorders
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10840410 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how computer analysis of speech can help doctors spot early signs of memory problems like Alzheimer's, making it easier for them to help people who might be experiencing these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $181,943 |
| NIH project number | 5K23AG063900-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10840410 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are experiencing symptoms of neurocognitive disorders or are healthy controls for comparison.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are under 21 years old or those without any cognitive impairment or related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, by utilizing computer speech analysis techniques. It aims to identify speech and language impairments that often occur early in these conditions, which can be challenging for primary care providers to detect. The study involves a longitudinal observational approach, comparing speech patterns in healthy individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's. The research also includes training and mentorship for the investigator to enhance the application of these techniques in clinical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses of Alzheimer's and other neurocognitive disorders, improving patient care and treatment planning.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using computer speech analysis for diagnosing neurocognitive disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pressman, Peter Scott — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Pressman, Peter Scott
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Microvascular brain health and speech in people at risk for Alzheimer’s disease
This study will look at how tiny blood vessels in the brain relate to speech and thinking changes in adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
-
Everyday speech tests to detect and monitor Alzheimer’s and related dementias
This project uses short recorded speech on phones to look for early signs of Alzheimer’s and track language changes over time.
-
Ketone-based approaches to improve sleep, anesthesia safety, and memory in older adults
Looks at whether giving the brain ketone fuel can improve sleep, lower anesthesia-related brain problems, and support memory in older adults and people with Alzheimer's.
-
Using digital speech analysis to detect Alzheimer's disease early.
This study is looking at how everyday speech can help spot early signs of Alzheimer's and related dementias, using recordings and smart technology, to make it easier for people, especially those from underserved communities, to get involved in research and understand how the disease progresses.
-
Improving sleep and brain health in older adults with metabolic treatments
This study is looking at how giving special energy sources called ketones can help older adults sleep better and stay safe during anesthesia, while also supporting brain health for those with conditions like Alzheimer's.
-
Using speech patterns to find early signs of Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how changes in speech can help spot early signs of Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment, making it easier for older adults to get the help they need sooner.
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.