Validation Of The Flemish Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) For Persons With Hearing Impairment

Launched by UNIVERSITY GHENT · May 1, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a modified version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a test used to check for thinking and memory problems, specifically for people who have hearing loss. The original MoCA test includes instructions and questions that are spoken, which may make it challenging for those who can't hear well. The new version of the MoCA uses both spoken instructions and visual support to help those with hearing difficulties. The goal of the trial is to ensure that this modified test accurately identifies cognitive impairments without being affected by hearing issues.

To participate in this study, individuals need to be 60 years or older, speak Dutch, and have age-related hearing loss, along with an official diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment. Participants should also be able to give their consent and live independently. Throughout the trial, participants will complete the modified MoCA test, helping researchers understand its effectiveness for those with hearing challenges. This study is currently recruiting participants, and their involvement will contribute to improving cognitive assessments for people with hearing loss.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals aged 60 years or older
• • Individuals with normal vision (with lenses or glasses if needed)
• • Individuals with age-related hearing loss
• • Dutch-speaking individuals
• • Individuals capable of giving consent to participate in the study themselves
• • Individuals still residing in their own homes
• • Individuals with an official diagnosis of dementia (Alzheimer's, vascular, or mixed) or mild cognitive impairment. This inclusion criterion applies only to the group with cognitive impairment.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• For individuals without cognitive impairment, the following exclusion criteria apply:
• • (History of) neurological problems (brain tumor, epilepsy, history of stroke, etc.)
• • Use of influencing medication (e.g., Ritalin and antidepressants)