Why are we doing this research study?
Untreated hearing loss can make it harder to connect with family and friends or navigate daily life. When we can’t hear clearly, we rely on our brains more to fill in the missing pieces. Even a mild hearing loss may mean our brain is working harder.
New laws have made hearing aids available for purchase over-the-counter (OTC) if someone has a mild to moderate hearing loss. We want to know if OTC hearing aids are beneficial to listeners with changes to their thinking and memory skills.
This study compares OTC hearing aids to learning and using communication strategies. Each participant will get both treatments, but the order in which they receive them will be randomly assigned.
What happens in the study?
Study participants will be given a pair of OTC hearing aids and asked to wear them each day for at least 4 weeks. You will also be counseled on ways to improve communication that do not rely on wearing hearing aids.
You and a communication partner will be part of the study for 8 weeks. During that time you will:
- Have your hearing tested
- Meet with a study team member by video link
- Complete some questionnaires about your communication abilities
- Make one visit to the UW Madison Campus to complete a communication task with your communication partner
If you participate in all study activities, you will receive up to $200 if you are the main participant and $150 if you are the communication partner.
Who can be in the study? You may qualify for this study if you:
- Are 60 to 90 years of age
- Have a close friend or family member who can participate with you
- Have mild to moderate hearing loss
- Are not a current hearing aid wearer
- Have diagnosed changes to your thinking and memory skills
- Speak English as your primary language
Learn More:
Call: 847-467-0897
Email: halab@northwestern.edu
Website: halab.northwestern.edu
