RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

EARLY DETECTION OF DEAFNESS IN A MEMORY CENTER

This research project, called CogAudio, is investigating if a special hearing test, known as the VRB test, can help find early hearing problems in older people who are already experiencing some memory difficulties. Doctors have noticed that hearing loss and memory problems often appear as people get older, and sometimes one can make it harder to spot the other. This study aims to use a new, easy-to-use test at a memory clinic to see if it can accurately pick up difficulties understanding speech in noisy environments. The goal is to detect these hearing issues sooner in people whose health is already a bit fragile due to cognitive challenges, hoping to improve their overall well-being.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Lille

Enrolment target

200

Start

27 May 2025

Estimated completion

27 Aug 2027

Cognitive Disorder Deafness

What is this study about?

As we get older, many of us start to notice changes in our hearing, and sometimes our memory too. It can be tricky to tell what's causing what, as hearing problems can sometimes make memory issues seem worse, and vice versa. This research looks into a new way to check for hearing difficulties in people who are already at a memory clinic because they're experiencing some problems with their thinking or memory.

The study uses a special test called the VRB test. The main idea is to see if this test can quickly and easily pick up if someone is struggling to understand what people are saying, especially when there's background noise. This is important because current methods might not always catch these issues in people who are also dealing with memory challenges.

The CogAudio project hopes that by finding hearing problems earlier, doctors can help patients get the support they need sooner. This could make a real difference to their daily lives and overall health. The study is particularly interested in older adults who have mild to moderate memory difficulties, as this group is more likely to experience both hearing and memory changes.

Key takeaways

Checks for early hearing problems in people with memory issues.
Uses a special VRB hearing test.
Aims to improve early diagnosis for better support.
Requires a 'study partner' to attend with you.
You need to speak French to participate.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to have mild to moderate memory problems. This would be based on a score of 15 or higher out of 30 on a common memory test called the MMSE. You must also be able to speak French well enough to understand the study instructions and tasks. Importantly, you need to be willing to follow all the study's steps and attend for the full duration of the research.

Another key requirement is that you must be accompanied by a 'study partner' who can support you throughout your participation. This person will likely be a family member or close friend. You'll also need to be socially insured and give your written permission to take part, understanding what it involves.

However, you won't be able to join if you have a current diagnosis of deafness, whether you use hearing aids or not. You're also excluded if you have an ongoing ear problem or a blockage in your ear drum that covers more than a third of its surface. Other reasons for not being able to join include significant mental health conditions that aren't stable, severe sight loss (like advanced AMD), or a diagnosed major language disorder such as Primary Progressive Aphasia. People under significant legal protection measures are also not able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Do I have mild to moderate memory problems (MMSE score 15 or higher)?
Can I speak and understand French fluently?
Do I have a family member or friend who can be my 'study partner' and come with me?
Do I have an existing diagnosis of deafness or a progressive ear condition?
Do I have severe sight loss or a diagnosed major language problem?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided doesn't give specific details about the number of visits, exact duration, or whether medication is involved. However, based on the description, if you join this study, you would likely:

* Visit a memory centre. * Have the VRB hearing test. This test aims to check how well you understand speech, especially when there's background noise. * Undergo other assessments to check your memory and cognitive abilities. This would probably include tests like the MMSE mentioned in the eligibility criteria. * Attend with a 'study partner' throughout your involvement. * Provide written consent before starting, meaning you'll read and sign a form that explains the study in full detail.

The study is described as 'ambulatory,' which means you would be able to walk in and out of the centre, rather than staying overnight. The exact total duration of your involvement is not specified but you must be willing to commit to it.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer the benefit of potentially identifying an undiagnosed hearing problem, which could then lead to appropriate support. It also contributes to important research that could help many other people in the future by improving early detection methods for hearing loss alongside memory challenges. The main intervention mentioned is a hearing test, which is generally very safe and non-invasive, meaning it won't involve needles or surgery. The primary risks would likely be the time commitment required for clinic visits and any potential discomfort during the hearing test if sounds are too loud, though this would be carefully monitored. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Hôpital Roger Salengro
Verified postcode
Lille, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is the study trying to find out?

The study wants to see if a new hearing test can spot early hearing problems in people who also have some memory difficulties, to help get them support sooner.

What is the VRB test?

The VRB test is a special hearing test designed to check how well you can understand speech, especially when there's other noise happening at the same time.

Do I need to speak a specific language to join?

Yes, you need to be able to speak and understand French well to take part in this study.

Do I need someone to come with me?

Yes, you must have a 'study partner' – like a family member or close friend – accompany you throughout your participation in the study.

What happens if I change my mind after joining?

You are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect the medical care you receive.

How to find out more

Pascaline Cassagnaud

pascaline.cassagnaud@chu-lille.fr 03.20.44 60 21 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.