30 Dec 2011
Researchers at the University of York have received a funding
boost for pioneering new studies into deafness. The Masonic
Samaritan Fund awarded £16,310 to Deafness Research UK, which will
be used by a team headed up by Professor Quentin Summerfield to
measure brain processes during sound localisation.
It is hoped that by developing a new
brain-imaging technique to identify problems in judging the
location of movement and sounds, scientists will be able to deliver
better treatments for elderly patients whose hearing problems
originate in the brain.
The research is expected to last for six
months, and is one of the many projects that have received a
combined total of £10 million in research grants to Deafness
Research UK.
"Our hope is that our research grant will
help those living with the debilitating effects of hearing loss and
eventually lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life," said
John McCrohan, grants director and deputy chief executive of the
Masonic Samaritan Fund.
"Many of our beneficiaries struggle with
hearing loss and we are pleased to be able to contribute vital
funds to Professor Summerfield's efforts."
According to Deafness Research UK,
presbycusis - the hearing loss that occurs with growing older -
affects more than half of all people over 60, making it the second
most common disability experienced by older people. Although the
condition is not curable, it can be treated through the use of
appropriate hearing aids.
If you think you may have a hearing loss why not take our
online hearing check questionnaire or make an
appointment to have a hearing test at your nearest
Amplifon branch.
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