Research Center: Sonova USA, Inc
Location: 47257 Fremont, California United States 94538 
Lead Researcher: Grace Gardner, AuD, BA
IRB Committee: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Western Institutional Review Board® (WIRB®) 

About the Study

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 466 million people worldwide have hearing loss. Hearing loss may be caused by genetics, difficulties at birth, certain infectious diseases, chronic ear infections, the use of particular medications, exposure to excessive noise, and aging. Researchers are seeking ways to help those with hearing problems and need healthy individuals to help test innovative hearing technologies.

This research study seeks to develop potential new hearing aid technologies incorporating biometric sensors for fitness and wellness tracking. By participating in this study, clinicians, engineers, and scientists may be able to develop new technology combining hearing instruments with fitness and wellness tracking. This innovative technology may lead to more awareness of physical activity and general wellness for hearing aid users.

Why Participate? 

• Participants will have the opportunity to engage in more physical activity and learn how it impacts fitness and wellness.
• Participants will be contributing valuable information that may benefit those with hearing challenges in the future.
• Participants will be compensated between $50 to $200 per study appointment, depending on the length of the visit. 
• Participants will be helping to advance research that may help people with hearing challenges.

Your Rights

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time.
• Any information that you provide will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
• Qualified researchers and health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?

• Men and women aged 40 years old or older 
• Must be able to perform physical activities (e.g. walking, running, climbing stairs, bicycling)
• Must not have a history of heart and blood vessel-related disorders
• Must not have external ear conditions such as but not limited to active ear pain, drainage, or infection
• Must be able to attend the study visit/s at the research site 

Key Study Details 

Some study activities participants can expect are:

• Taking physical measurements like height, weight, and blood pressure
• Wearing a biometric sensor device while participating in physical and household activities. Activities like walking, bicycling, typing, driving.
• Wearing hearing aids that use biometric sensor technology

About the Research Center:

Sonova USA, Inc.
In the US, Sonova has been present since 1977 and today serves the US market with the brands Phonak, Unitron, Hansaton, Advanced Bionics, and Connect Hearing.

Please note:

Due to the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers would like to assure you that maintaining the safety of the participants and study staff is of utmost importance.