What is ACHIEVE?

​The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) study is a research study investigating two different treatments that may promote healthy aging and cognitive health in older adults. These treatments include a successful aging education program and a hearing loss program. Study participants will be randomly selected to either receive the successful aging education or the hearing program. At the end of the study, participants can then get the other program if they wish.

How is ACHIEVE funded?

ACHIEVE is funded by a grant from the National Institute on Aging.

Eligibility

To take part in this study you must meet the following criteria:

• Are between 70-84 years old
• Live in the community
• Be fluent in English
• Be free from dementia
• Have a hearing loss
• Not have used a hearing aid in the past 1 year
• Be willing to follow study procedures and return for all study visits

Programs

The treatments include a successful aging education program and a hearing loss program. Study participants will be randomly selected to either receive the successful aging education or the hearing program. At the end of the study, participants can then get the other program if they wish.

Outcomes

Study testing will include:

• Interviews about your health and well-being
• Evaluations of your thinking and memory
• Hearing and vision evaluations
• Physical functioning tests
• Blood pressure
• Blood draw
• Accelerometry (a special watch that records changes in your physical activity through the day and night)

Benefits/Risks

There are minimal risks. If you take part in this study, you may help others in the future by helping us understand the impact of successful aging education and hearing loss treatment on the health and functioning of older adults. 

Study locations

This study is being conducted at four locations:

George W. Comstock Center, Hagerstown, MD
University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Wake Forest University, Forsyth County, NC