HEARS-NPS: Addressing Hearing Loss as a Common Unmet Contributor of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms

HEARS Neuropsychiatric Symptoms & Hearing Loss: Addressing Hearing Loss as a Common Unmet Contributor of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms

This randomized controlled trial study aims to evaluate a revised hearing care intervention for older adults with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). The community-delivered hearing care intervention utilizes tailored strategies to assess impact on communication, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), and care partner distress.

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