Welcome to the B.E.A.R. Lab

At the Brain, Ear, and Aging Research (B.E.A.R.) Lab at the University of Montana, we study how hearing and aging shape both brain function and everyday experience. Our work centers around two interconnected research areas: the neurophysiology of auditory processing and the psychosocial consequences of age-related hearing loss.

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We are particularly interested in how hearing loss in later life impacts emotional well-being, social engagement, and overall quality of life. Through a combination of behavioral measures, cognitive assessments, and self-report tools, we explore how communication difficulties influence everyday interactions, contribute to cognitive and emotional strain, and affect how older adults connect with the world around them. Our research aims to clarify the pathways through which auditory decline intersects with psychosocial outcomes and to identify the mechanisms that may support resilience and improved communication in aging populations.

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In parallel, we also pursue basic science investigations into the neural mechanisms of auditory processing across the adult lifespan. Using electrophysiological techniques including auditory event-related potentials (ERPs) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), we examine how the brain encodes and adapts to sound, and how aging influences these processes. These studies aim to advance our understanding of auditory plasticity, listening effort, and cognitive-auditory interactions under both typical and challenging listening conditions.

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At the B.E.A.R. Lab, we believe that bridging psychosocial outcomes with neurophysiological mechanisms offers a powerful lens for understanding auditory aging. By integrating behavioral science with brain-based approaches, our research aims to inform both fundamental theories of auditory function and practical strategies to support well-being in older adults.