Speech, Language and Swallowing in Individuals with Down Syndrome

Individual with Down syndrome sitting at table with other adult, pointing to a chart

This study aims to teach us how to improve services for individuals with Down syndrome who find it hard to be understood through speech and/or experience regular problems with choking on food or liquid. We also seek to understand how the brain helps to control swallowing and speech production.

Who can participate in this study?

  • Individuals with Down syndrome between the ages of 18 to 40 years old and are native American English speakers

Who cannot participate in this study?

  • No diagnosis of Down syndrome
  • Below the ages of 18 or above the age of 40 years
  • Not native speakers of American English

Where does this study take place?

This study takes place at the Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic on the Penn State University Park campus (near State College, PA). Participants traveling from another location within the state (>20 miles from campus) or from an adjacent state will receive round trip mileage reimbursement. For participants who are traveling in for the study, we will provide one night of hotel stay to allow two days for data collection.

What activities are involved in this study?

What is the expected time commitment of this study?

Data collection is typically completed in four 90-minute sessions. For our ot town participants, these visits can be scheduled over the course of two days, requiring only one trip to campus.

What languages does this study support?

English

Is compensation provided?

Yes

If you have any questions or are interested in joining the Speech, Language and Swallowing in Individuals with Down Syndrome study, please contact: Gwen Davis at gek112@psu.edu

IRB: STUDY00022372

Principal investigator
Krista Wilkinson
Publish Date