Speech amplification for Parkinson's and related conditions
Official title: Speech Amplification Devices for Parkinson and Related Diseases: Talker- and Technology-Driven Enhancements
Run by Michigan State University · NCT07599696 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether speech amplification devices, used with or without clear-speech strategies, can improve speaking volume and clarity for people with Parkinson disease or related disorders.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 50 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Michigan State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (East Lansing, Michigan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07599696 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults who are dominant North American English talkers with a neurologist-confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson disease or parkinsonism and observable speech/voice changes.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without meaningful speech changes or who cannot tolerate amplification devices may not experience benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study examines how amplification devices affect both the acoustic properties of speech and how listeners perceive it in people with Parkinson disease or atypical parkinsonism. Participants will use amplification devices and also speak in habitual and hyperarticulated clear speech styles to identify which combinations yield the best communication outcomes. Behavioral speech strategies will be used alongside amplification to see if this combination enhances daily communication beyond traditional therapy. The research aims to map which acoustic features most contribute to perceptual improvements and to optimize device settings for individual talkers. The project is led by Michigan State University with support from the NIDCD and involves collaboration across sites.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, amplification devices could offer a personalized way to improve daily communication for people with Parkinson disease and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests amplification can improve communication in PD, but optimal device settings and integration with behavioral strategies require further study.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Dominant speakers of North American English * Have received a neurologist's diagnosis of Parkinson disease or parkinsonism (e.g., PSP/MSA/PSP) * Present with changes in their speech/voice Exclusion Criteria: * History of any other speech, language, or neurological concern other than Parkinson/parkinsonism. * Uncorrected hearing loss that exceeds a threshold of 40 dB HL in more than one ear (as per baseline screening audiometry) and/or use of a cochlear implant.
Where it's running
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Thea Knowles, PhD
- Email: thea@msu.edu
- Phone: 517-353-6401
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.