Post-doc
joined the BALAB in 2024 to investigate the effects of music and second language learning on older adults with hearing loss. In line with this, her PhD work, conducted at the Max Planck Institute CBS in Leipzig spanned several topics including how musical ability and working memory are linked to music and language syntax processing. Her other research lines include: rehabilitative effects of music on cochlear implant users, specifically in the areas of music and speech perception; the application of Neural Resonance Theory’s dynamical systems model to music and speech perception; working-memory-related brain oscillatory contributions to speech-in-noise perception. Ellie is also a member of the Speech Perception Lab of Deniz Başkent at the Faculty of Medical Sciences (UMCG).
Project description
Researchers BALAB: Dr. Ellie Harding, Prof. Merel Keijzer, collaborators UMCG: Ir. Bert Maat, Prof. Deniz Başkent
Previous research in the BALAB indicated that older adults with normal hearing benefited from learning a second language and taking music lessons, both in terms of cognitive function and psychosocial wellbeing. While hearing loss was an exclusion criteria for that study, in fact, older adults with hearing loss are statistically at risk for cognitive decline and feelings of isolation. Therefore, the current study assesses potential benefits of second language learning and musical engagement on a group of older adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. Over three years, multiple cohorts of older adults with hearing loss will partake in three-month-long activities, including second-language learning (sign-language) and musical engagement (choir). This study is conducted partly in collaboration with the SingWell Project and Golden Hearing.
