Why is this study being conducted?
Hearing aids are the most common and appropriate treatment for most adults with hearing loss. Approximately 30 million people over the age of 65 in the United States are affected by hearing loss, but only 20% of these individuals purchase and use hearing aids. The main goal of the Patient-Centered Hearing Aid Trial (P-CHAT) is to compare the benefits resulting from different ways of providing hearing aids to adults with hearing loss.
Who can participate?
In order to qualify for the study, you must:
- Be 50-79 years old
- Have never worn hearing aids
- Be able to purchase two discounted hearing aids for $650
- Be able to attend three in-person study sessions over a 6-month period
To find out if you are eligible, take a quick online screening.
Is there any compensation?
If you agree to take part in this research study, we will give you a $25 gift card at the end of Session 1 and a $75 gift card at the end of Session 3 for your time and effort. We will also give you a $20 gift card after each session for travel expenses.
The discounted research price of $650 for the rechargeable hearing aids includes a 4-year warranty on the hearing aids and a 3-year warranty on the charger.
What do participants have to do?
If you are eligible and decide to participate, you will attend three study sessions at your preferred research location (Chicago, Evanston, and Palos Hills, IL; or Galveston, TX).
At the first session, we will test your hearing and you will complete a few questionnaires. This session should last between 2-3 hours. You will then be provided with a pair of rechargeable hearing aids for the highly discounted research price of $650 (payable by credit/debit card or check). We will instruct you on how to use the hearing aids and you will be expected to wear them daily. You will come back for the following two sessions in 6 weeks and 6 months, respectively, and complete additional questionnaires regarding your experiences with the hearing aids. These follow-up sessions should last around 2 hours.
Where is the study conducted?
There are four P-CHAT research locations: three in the Chicago area and one in Galveston, TX.
- Northwestern University, Center for Audiology, Speech, Language, and Learning (Evanston, IL)
- Northwestern Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology (Chicago, IL)
- Sertoma Speech and Hearing Center (Palos Hills, IL)
- University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston, TX)
For a list of study locations and directions, visit our research sites page.
What safety measures are being taken to decrease the risk of exposure to COVID-19?
During the visits to the research sites, all participants are required to wear face coverings for the entire session and always maintain a 6-foot distance from those not involved in the research. Anyone feeling unwell should postpone their visit for another time.
Visit the COVID-19 Safety Info page to learn more.