NCT06102486 · Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
MCI Speech in Noise
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine whether people with MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) and healthy comparison subjects differ with respect to their ability to hear soft sounds and how their brain understands and processes sound. The investigators are also evaluating, within those with MCI, whether the hearing tests are associated with neurocognitive functioning.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine whether people with MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) and healthy comparison subjects differ with respect to their ability to hear soft sounds and how their brain understands and processes sound. The investigators are also evaluating, within those with MCI, whether the hearing tests are associated with neurocognitive functioning. The investigators are interested in learning whether changes in cognition in those with MCI can be detected using tests of how the brain processes sound. The investigators hypothesize that participants with MCI will score worse on both hearing tests and neurocognitive tests than participants without MCI. Participants are asked to complete multiple types of hearing tests, take a series of neurocognitive tests, and complete a few questionnaires.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults diagnosed with or suspected to have MCI (for MCI group) or are cognitively normal (for Control group)
- Absence of other risk factors that might affect CAP (Central Auditory Processing) performance (e.g., active ear infections, congenital developmental delay, severe hearing loss)
- Normal hearing sensitivity (\<40 dB HL Pure Tone Average (average of 500, 1000, 2000 Hz) thresholds bilaterally
- Normal middle ear function defined by tympanometry (0.3-2.0 ml)
- Native English speaker
Exclusion criteria
- Active ear infections or abnormal middle ear pathology
- Other health condition prohibiting the completion of the CAP test battery
- Mild to profound peripheral hearing loss (\>40 dB (decibel) HL (hearing loss) Pure Tone Average (average of 500, 1000, 2000 Hz) bilaterally
- Adults unable to consent
- Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers)
- History of CNS (Central Nervous System) disorder that might severely impact cognitive function (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, neurosyphilis, intracranial tumors, history of significant head trauma with loss of consciousness (≥30 min), and cerebrovascular disease)
- Severe mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
- Current, uncontrolled medical condition that could affect cognition (e.g., hypertension)
- History of substance use disorder within the (other than nicotine/caffeine)
- Non-correctable severe hearing or vision loss
- Use of "Cognition Enhancing Drugs"
- Frequent, severe headaches (occasional headaches or migraines are fine)
Where
- Lebanon, New Hampshire
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations