Speech Pathology & Audiology
Speech Pathology & Audiology
Speech Pathology & Audiology
This is an overview of phone screening for older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This website will outline the steps that have been taken so far, and what the goals are for this study. The purpose of this project is to develop a measure of functional communication in older adults with MCI using a co-design approach. This study needs assessment using in-depth semi-structured interviews to characterize functional communication challenges in older adults with MCI. Results will lead to an initial list of items that may be used to develop a patient-centered functional communication measure.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
Reside in the U.S
60 years or older
English Speaking
Access technology with an internet and a webcam
Self-report MCI or memory complaints
Normal or corrected vision
Normal or corrected hearing
Exclusion Criteria:
More than mildly impaired cognition or communciation (MoCA-Telephone score <13)
Self-report other major neurological illness
Self-report major mental health issues
Eligibility Screening
Step 1: Development: The phone screening protocol and MoCA-T administration procedures were reviewed and refined through multiple iterations. Throughout this process, we revised wording to improve clarity and strengthened our ability to communicate effectively and respond appropriately to participants. We also received training to ensure consistency across all screeners. During MoCA-T administration, we encountered challenges, particularly with the clapping component of the attention task. In response, we explored alternative methods that would remain feasible and accessible in a phone-based format.
Step 2: Screening Process: Eligibility was determined via a phone screening conducted by the PI, which included a questionnaire and the MoCA-T to assess mild cognitive concerns. It was also decided that participants who were found to be ineligible would not be immediately informed of their status, in order to avoid situations where we might be unable to adequately address follow-up questions or concerns.
Step 3: Next Steps: Following eligibility screening, participants complete the study via Zoom, with a total duration of approximately 2–3 hours. Sessions may be conducted in a single sitting or split across multiple sessions, depending on participant preference and availability.
This study has not yet been completed, so no results are currently available. This section is included to demonstrate where findings will be presented following data collection and analysis.
The following is an image of poster presented at the 2026 Undergraduate Research Forum.
Communication: Conducted Structured phone screenings with older adults and ensured clear, professional, and empathetic communication.
Critical Thinking: Applied inclusion and exclusion criteria to determine participant eligibility and support accurate study outcomes.
Professionalism: Adhered to research protocols and IRB requirements, maintained confidentiality and endangered in ethical care and practice.
Teamwork: Collaborated with research team and professor to refine screening procedures and ensure consistent data collection.
This study was conducted in accordance with Institutional Review Board (IRB) guidelines for the protection of human subjects. The protocol was reviewed and approved through an expedited review process by Miami University’s IRB (Protocol #02393r). All research personnel completed required human subjects training prior to participation