Using Hearing Aids With Sensors and AI to Assess Fall Risk and Improve Speech Clarity in Adults 55 and Older

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the use of hearing aids equipped with embedded sensors and artificial intelligence to assess the risk of falling and to improve speech understanding in quiet and noisy environments. This study includes adults aged 55 and older who use hearing aids and aims to reduce falls and enhance hearing quality by tracking physical activity and social engagement. The research is led by Stanford University and involves a non-randomized, interventional design focused on fall prevention and hearing improvement. Participants will wear special hearing aids that monitor their movement and signal if they are at risk of falling. The study examines fall risk assessment and speech intelligibility enhancement using these in-ear devices. Both study groups receive the same intervention with devices that detect motion and assist in evaluating balance and hearing performance. During the study, participants will undergo several tests such as the CDCs STEADI protocol for fall risk, Timed Up and Go Test, Chair Stand Test, Balance Test, and various speech perception tests. They will also complete questionnaires about their listening effort, hearing lifestyle, balance confidence, and user experience. Hearing aid data and health information will be collected. The total study duration and follow-up periods are not specified, but assessments typically take between 2 and 15 minutes each.

Fall Risk Assessment and Speech Intelligibility Enhancement Using In-ear Device