Investigating how nonlinear algorithms in hearing aids affect speech perception
Effects of Nonlinear Signal Processing Algorithms on Speech Perception
This study tests how different settings on hearing aids can help people with hearing loss understand speech better in noisy environments.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Indiana University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bloomington, Indiana) |
| Trial ID | NCT05954520 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the impact of nonlinear signal processing algorithms on speech perception in individuals with sensorineural hearing loss. Using a wearable processor called Tympan, participants will experience real-time audio processing to evaluate how different algorithm settings and background noise types influence their ability to understand speech. The study will assess various input signal-to-noise ratios and the speed of gain adjustments to determine optimal conditions for improved speech comprehension. The findings aim to enhance the design of hearing aids and personal sound amplifiers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 who are native English speakers with bilateral, symmetric sensorineural hearing loss of less than 75 dB HL at 1000 Hz and below.
Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing, mixed hearing loss, or asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved hearing aid technology that enhances speech understanding for individuals with hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have explored speech perception in relation to hearing aids, but the specific use of nonlinear algorithms in this context is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Between the ages of 18 and 65 * Native speaker of English * Have bilateral, symmetric sensorineural hearing loss that is less than 75 decibels (dB) Hearing Level (HL) at 1000 Hz and below. Exclusion Criteria: * Subjects with normal hearing, mixed hearing loss, or asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss. * Subjects who younger than 18 or older than 65. * Subjects who are not native speakers of English. * Subjects with thresholds more than 70 dB HL at 2000 Hz and below
Where this trial is running
Bloomington, Indiana
- Health Sciences Building — Bloomington, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jennifer Lentz, PhD
- Email: jjlentz@iu.edu
- Phone: 18128558945
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.