Hearing Aids for Hearing Loss
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to understand how different features of hearing aids (also known as hearing instruments) perform in various environments for adults with hearing loss. The study will explore which features users prefer during their daily activities. Participants will wear hearing aids and provide feedback through questionnaires. It suits adults with N4 hearing loss who have previously used hearing aids. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to the development of more effective hearing aids tailored to real-world needs.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on hearing aids, so it's unlikely to require changes to your medication, but you should confirm with the study team.
What prior data suggests that these hearing instruments are safe for users?
Research has shown that hearing aids are generally safe for use. They have been available for a long time and assist many people with hearing loss. The FDA states that these devices are designed to be safe and effective.
It is important to know that hearing aids do not harm hearing over time. One study examined their long-term effects and found they do not worsen hearing loss. This indicates that most people can use hearing aids without issues. There are no major reports of negative effects solely from their use.
Overall, hearing aids are a safe choice for those needing assistance in hearing better in various situations. Participants in this study will wear hearing aids in their daily lives, a common method to evaluate how these devices function in real-world settings.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these hearing instruments because they aim to provide a more personalized listening experience for individuals with hearing loss. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which often use a one-size-fits-all approach, these new instruments focus on adapting to the user's specific environment and personal preferences. By gathering detailed feedback through user questionnaires, these devices may offer improved sound quality and comfort, potentially leading to a more satisfying and effective hearing experience.
What evidence suggests that hearing instruments are effective for hearing loss?
Studies have shown that hearing aids can significantly improve the lives of people with hearing loss. They help users communicate more easily and boost social and emotional well-being. Research suggests that regularly using hearing aids might even lower the risk of early death by 24% compared to those who don't use them. While hearing aids don't completely restore normal hearing, they effectively reduce the negative effects of hearing loss. This effectiveness makes them a popular first-choice treatment for many with hearing difficulties. Participants in this trial will wear hearing instruments and provide feedback on their experiences.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-95 with N4 hearing loss who have used hearing aids before and can speak, read, and write English fluently. They should be able to complete complex listening tasks without cognitive impairments. People with normal hearing or outside the specified range, no experience with hearing aids, or any condition that affects study participation are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants are fit with hearing instruments and wear them in their home environment
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Hearing Instrument
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Sonova AG
Lead Sponsor
Arnd Kaldowski
Sonova AG
Chief Executive Officer since 2018
MBA from INSEAD, MSc in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich
Stefan Launer
Sonova AG
Chief Medical Officer since 2016
PhD in Natural Sciences from ETH Zurich