Why older cochlear implant users have trouble understanding speech
Peripheral and central contributions to auditory temporal processing deficits and speech understanding in older cochlear implantees
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · NIH-11310021
This project looks at how changes in the ear and brain affect older adults with cochlear implants so they can understand speech better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11310021 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would take part in hearing tests and measurements that separate how the cochlea and the brain process timing in sounds. Researchers will use cochlear implant stimulation on single electrodes, behavioral speech tests, and physiological measures to see which parts of the system explain hearing problems. The team compares results across older implant users to pinpoint peripheral (ear/electrode) versus central (brain) causes of trouble with speech. Findings will guide ways to adjust implants or rehabilitation for older listeners.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with cochlear implants, especially older adults who report difficulty understanding speech, would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without cochlear implants or those whose hearing problems are unrelated to temporal processing may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to implant settings or therapies that help older cochlear implant users hear speech more clearly.
How similar studies have performed: Related cochlear implant and auditory-aging studies have improved programming and understanding of hearing, but directly separating ear versus brain timing effects in older adults is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK — COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOUPELL, MATTHEW J. — UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK
- Study coordinator: GOUPELL, MATTHEW J.
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 below.