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About the Study

What is EARHLI?

The EARHLI study is a randomized controlled trial that is looking at different ways to improve aging. Participants will be randomly selected to either receive a hearing program or a health education program. Both programs last one year. At the end of the study, all participants will have the option of obtaining or keeping hearing aids.

EARHLI is funded by a grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

EARHLI is taking place at only one site in the US. Participant should live within commuting distance to the study site:

Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
180 Fort Washington Ave
New York, NY 10032

Eligibility

To take part in the study, participants must:

• Be between 55 and 75 years old
• Have trouble hearing (even if very slight or noticeable only to others)
• Not currently be using hearing aids
• Have minor memory troubles (but not have dementia)
• Speak English or Spanish
• Live in the New York City metro area

The study will ask questions and perform tests over 6 visits including:

• Questions about health and well-being
• Thinking and memory tests
• Hearing tests
• Blood test
• MRI scan in some participants

The benefit of the study is to help us understand how people can have better aging and hearing treatment. Participants will be compensated for visits and have transportation arranged. Those who complete the study will be allowed to keep prescription hearing aids. There are minimal risks to this study.