Hearing aids may be key to slowing dementia – new study tests easy access

NCT ID NCT07288463

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study will test whether over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are practical and acceptable for older adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who are at risk for dementia. Forty participants aged 50 and older will either use the hearing aids right away or wait three months. The study measures how many people sign up, stick with the devices, and find them helpful, with the goal of designing larger trials to improve hearing care and cognitive health.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid
What this could lead to
If successful, this study could show that OTC hearing aids are a practical way to improve hearing care access, potentially helping to reduce dementia risk in older adults.
What could go wrong
This is a small pilot study with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. It focuses on feasibility, not on proving that hearing aids prevent dementia.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Southern California

    Los Angeles, California, 90066, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

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