Written by: Colleen Lipinski, Doctor of Audiology, Reg. CASLPO
Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline: What the Research Shows
Research increasingly suggests a link between hearing loss and dementia. Recent studies suggest that untreated hearing loss may increase the risk of cognitive decline, while hearing aids may help protect cognitive health. This blog highlights key findings and emphasizes the significance of early detection and treatment of hearing loss.
A systematic review of 25 studies and six trials found that untreated hearing loss increased the risk of cognitive decline and dementia by 19% and 17% respectively. However, people who used hearing aids showed no elevated risk of dementia. As a result, researchers believe hearing treatment may help protect cognitive function.
Hearing aids may strengthen brain resilience rather than targeting specific neuropathologies. Nevertheless, researchers need more randomized clinical trials to confirm this relationship.
Hearing loss remains under-recognized and under-treated despite its prevalence among older adults. Consequently, many people do not receive timely intervention. Furthermore, increased awareness and better access to hearing care could help reduce dementia risk. Therefore, early detection and improved access to hearing aids can positively impact cognitive health, lightening the burden of dementia on individuals and society.
Preventing dementia through correcting hearing: huge progress but more to do
Gill Livingston and Sergei Costafreda
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(23)00058-0/fulltext
How Hearing Aids May Support Cognitive Health
Hearing loss and cognitive decline are prevalent concerns among older adults worldwide. As the number to dementia cases continue to rise, addressing preventable risk factors becomes increasingly important. Hearing loss affects a significant portion of the aging population and has been associated with dementia. Could using hearing aids be a potential way to reduce the risk of dementia? Recent research sheds light on this intriguing possibility.
Studies show that people with untreated hearing loss face a higher risk of dementia. In contrast, those using hearing aids show a similar risk to individuals without hearing loss. Hearing aids could play a vital role in reducing the risk of dementia for individuals with hearing loss. Early detection and widespread use of hearing aids hold promise in safeguarding cognitive health among older adults. While more research is needed to explore specific dementia types and underlying mechanisms, the potential benefits of using hearing aids in dementia prevention are undoubtedly worth considering.
Association between hearing aid use and all- cause and cause-specific dementia: an analysis of the UK Biobank cohort
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(23)00048-8/fulltext
Looking to read the articles and find out more? Check out the different studies and articles below!
https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/hearing-aids-cognitive-decline-dementia-1.6909911
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/07/19/hearing-loss-hearing-aids-dementia-study/
Learn more about hearing health services here:
https://www.torontoaudiology.com/
Don’t forget to book your hearing test and hearing aid evaluation today!
