Understanding reading difficulties in stroke survivors and older adults

ReadMap: Reading in Stroke Alexia and Typical Aging

Observational Georgetown University · NCT06700005

This study looks at how reading problems, called alexia, affect stroke survivors and older adults to see how their brains work and how we can help them better.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorGeorgetown University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Washington D.C., District of Columbia)
Trial IDNCT06700005 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the cognitive and brain mechanisms underlying reading difficulties, known as alexia, in stroke survivors and typical older adults. Participants will undergo a series of tests assessing their reading, speech, language, and cognitive abilities, with some also participating in MRI scans to explore brain function. The study aims to enhance the understanding of how stroke and aging affect reading capabilities, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for those affected by alexia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include stroke survivors and older adults aged 18 and above who learned English at 8 years or younger.

Not a fit: Patients with other brain disorders, severe psychiatric conditions, or significant sensory impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better diagnosis and treatment options for individuals suffering from reading difficulties due to stroke.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on stroke and cognitive impairments exist, this specific focus on alexia in stroke survivors and older adults is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria:

Stroke Survivors:

* Age \>= 18
* Learned English at 8 years or younger
* Brain injury resulting from stroke

Controls:

* Age \>= 18
* Learned English at 8 years or younger

Exclusion criteria for all groups:

* History of other brain disorder that could interfere with our ability to interpret results (e.g., Multiple sclerosis, dementia, head injury causing loss of consciousness)
* Severe psychiatric condition that would interfere with participation in the study
* History of diagnosed learning disorder
* Hearing or vision loss that interferes with performance on behavioral tests even after correction with glasses/hearing aids.
* Inability to follow study procedures despite maximal support

Additional exclusion criteria for MRIs:

* Presence of metal in the body that is incompatible with MRI
* Pregnancy
* Claustrophobia

Where this trial is running

Washington D.C., District of Columbia

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 AphasiaStrokeAlexiaaphasiastrokebrain injuryspeechlanguage
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.