Using ultrasound to improve swallowing assessments in older adults
Official title: Ultrasound for bedside characterization of swallowing biomechanical impairments and biofeedback
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-10986878 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how ultrasound can help doctors check swallowing problems in older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, to make it easier for them to get the right help when they have trouble swallowing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $432,534 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG085152-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986878 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, who are experiencing swallowing difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have swallowing disorders or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of ultrasound imaging as a bedside tool to assess swallowing difficulties in older adults, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study aims to validate ultrasound measures of swallowing movements compared to traditional videofluoroscopy, which is often not accessible in non-hospital settings. By monitoring swallowing biomechanics, the research seeks to enhance the ability of clinicians to provide timely interventions and referrals for patients experiencing dysphagia. The ultimate goal is to improve patient safety and quality of life by addressing swallowing disorders effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accessible and effective assessments and treatments for swallowing disorders in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: While ultrasound has been proposed for similar applications, this specific approach has not been extensively tested in the context of dysphagia in older adults, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krekeler, Brittany Nicole — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Krekeler, Brittany Nicole
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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.