HEARS-NPS: Addressing Hearing Loss as a Common Unmet Contributor of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
Launched by JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · Apr 9, 2025
Trial Information
Current as of August 19, 2025
Not yet recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
The HEARS-NPS trial is a study focused on helping older adults with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias who also have hearing loss. This trial will test a special hearing care program designed to improve communication and reduce symptoms like mood changes or confusion that can affect these individuals. By addressing hearing loss, the researchers hope to make a positive impact on both the participants’ well-being and their caregivers’ stress levels.
To be eligible for this study, participants should be between 60 and 100 years old, speak English, and have a diagnosis of probable Alzheimer’s Disease or a related type of dementia. They also need to have some degree of hearing loss but cannot currently use a hearing aid. Additionally, each participant must have a caregiver who can help them throughout the study. If you choose to take part, you can expect to engage in a community-based program over the coming months, with follow-ups to see how the intervention is helping. The study is not yet recruiting, but it aims to gather important information that could lead to better support for those with Alzheimer’s and hearing challenges.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • Age 60 - 100 years old
- • English-speaking
- • Diagnosis of probable Alzheimer's Disease or other related dementia according to the core clinical criteria outlined in the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and Alzheimer's Association Guidelines
- • Speech frequency pure tone average (0.5- 4 kHz) \>25 db in the better-hearing ear; adult onset hearing loss
- • Availability of caregiver/study partner who is 18+ to participate in all study-related visits and who provides care supervision
- • Stable (for 2 weeks or longer) dosing of medication (e.g. antidepressants, antipsychotics) for neuropsychiatric symptoms
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • Current self-reported use of hearing aid or amplification device
- • Medical contraindication to use hearing aids ( e.g. draining ears)
- • Inability to participate in the 1-month follow up
About Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University, a prestigious research institution located in Baltimore, Maryland, is renowned for its commitment to advancing medical science and public health through innovative clinical trials. With a rich history of groundbreaking research and a multidisciplinary approach, the university's clinical trial initiatives focus on translating scientific discoveries into effective treatments and interventions. Leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative network of experts, Johns Hopkins University conducts rigorous clinical studies that aim to improve patient outcomes and address critical health challenges. Its dedication to ethical standards and participant safety underscores its role as a leader in clinical research.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Esther Oh, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported