Auditory brain training for older cochlear implant users

Optimizing Speech Recognition and Cognitive Outcomes for Older Cochlear Implant Users

Not applicable Interventional Gallaudet University · NCT05176561

This study is testing if an online brain training program can help older adults with cochlear implants improve their hearing, thinking skills, and quality of life.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorGallaudet University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Washington, District of Columbia and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05176561 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of an auditory brain training program designed to enhance cochlear implant outcomes in older adults who have experienced post-lingual deafness. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an auditory-brain training group or a non-auditory cognitive training group, with the aim of improving their speech recognition, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. The training will be conducted online, allowing participants to engage from home or their office, and will include weekly virtual meetings with a clinician to monitor progress. The study seeks to identify the most effective training methods for this population to optimize their communication abilities and cognitive health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and over who have had a cochlear implant activated for 3 months to 3 years and meet specific cognitive and speech recognition criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with single-sided deafness or those who are not fluent in English may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved speech recognition and cognitive function for older adults using cochlear implants.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using cognitive training approaches for improving outcomes in similar populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 60 years of age and over;
* Between 3 months and 3 years post cochlear implant activation;
* Passing score an cognitive screener (Callahan et al, 2002);
* Speech recognition scores on AZBio between 10% and 85%.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Single-sided deafness
* Non-fluent English

Where this trial is running

Washington, District of Columbia and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hearing LossDeafnessOlder AdultAuditory TrainingSpeech recognitionCognitive functionQuality of LifePost-lingual
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.