Auditory Training for Hearing Loss
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine how different types of Auditory Training (AT) can improve speech understanding, particularly in noisy settings. The researchers will focus on various AT methods to identify which ones best enhance speech clarity. This study may suit individuals fluent in English or Spanish, with normal or near-normal hearing, who occasionally struggle to hear speech in noisy environments. Participants will engage in different auditory activities, aiding researchers in understanding what makes AT successful. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to foundational research that could enhance auditory training methods for many.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have a medical illness requiring treatment during the study, you may be excluded from participating.
What prior data suggests that auditory training is safe for improving speech understanding?
Research has shown that auditory training (AT) is generally well-received, with studies indicating various positive outcomes. For the Mixed Training approach, evidence from different studies demonstrates significant improvements in speech understanding and cognitive skills, with no major safety concerns reported.
For Gamified Training, studies have found that this method can enhance sound processing and memory. Its engaging format seems to improve the training experience without any reported negative effects.
Regarding Foraging Training, research has shown significant improvements in hearing abilities in adults, again without any serious safety issues.
Speech Training is supported by studies showing better speech understanding and an improved quality of life, especially for older adults. Safety concerns are minimal, as most studies focus on improvements in speech comprehension.
Finally, for STM (Short-Term Memory) Training, studies have shown it effectively improves specific listening tasks. The training has yielded positive results with no significant safety issues.
Overall, AT methods are considered safe across various types, with studies focusing on improvements in hearing and cognitive skills rather than safety risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about auditory training for hearing loss because it harnesses the brain's ability to adapt and improve sound processing through different engaging techniques. Unlike traditional hearing aids that amplify sound, these methods—like gamified training and foraging training—aim to retrain the brain to better interpret sounds, potentially enhancing listening skills without hardware. This approach could be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle to understand speech in noisy environments, offering a novel way to improve hearing function beyond conventional amplification. With options like mixed and speech training, these methods provide a variety of interactive and targeted exercises designed to cater to different learning preferences and auditory challenges.
What evidence suggests that this trial's auditory training approaches could be effective for improving speech understanding in noisy environments?
Research has shown that auditory training can help people understand speech better in noisy places. In this trial, participants may receive different types of auditory training. Studies have found that methods like mixed training and speech training, included in this trial, greatly improve how well many people, including those with cochlear implants, hear speech in noisy settings. Gamified training, another option in this trial, effectively boosts basic listening memory and processing skills. Other types of training in this trial, such as foraging training and short-term memory training, enhance thinking skills like memory and attention, aiding communication in challenging listening situations. Overall, auditory training methods have been proven to assist people with hearing difficulties by enhancing their listening abilities and quality of life.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tess Koerner, PhD
Principal Investigator
Oregon Health and Science University
Aaron Seitz, PhD
Principal Investigator
Northeastern University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with hearing loss, including both young and older adults. Participants will engage in auditory training to improve speech understanding in noise. They must be willing to undergo various auditory tasks, tests, and surveys. Specific eligibility details are not provided but typically include factors like age range and hearing loss severity.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Auditory Training
Participants take part in auditory training sessions that include different types of auditory tasks
Testing
Participants complete tests to measure speech understanding in quiet and noisy settings
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after training
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Auditory Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northeastern University
Lead Sponsor
University of California, Riverside
Collaborator
Oregon Health and Science University
Collaborator