Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic medical condition among older adults, after arthritis and hypertension. Recent research has found a very clear connection between hearing loss cognitive decline. Cognitive decline occurs as a natural part of aging, but older adults with hearing loss appear to decline at a faster rate than individuals with normal hearing.
Studies have also found improvement in cognitive functions in hearing aid and cochlear implant users. In 2020, the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care specified 12 potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia. Hearing loss was found to be the #1 modifiable risk. Despite the documented benefits of hearing intervention, less than 30% of adults ages 70 years or older, and 16% of adults ages 20 to 69 years in the United States who could benefit from hearing aids actually use them. Auditory stimulation increases speech perception and social interactions, decreases loneliness, improves neuroplasticity and cortical reorganization, and positively influences working memory skills.
Hearing is more than just the ears. At Center for Audiology Services, we seek to find solutions that are specifically tailored for you- to help keep you involved in the activities you enjoy, converse with loved ones, and keep the brain active and engaged.
References
Lin FR, Yaffe K, Xia J, et al. Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults. JAMA Intern Med. 2013;173(4):293–299. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.1868
Livingston G, et al. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. Lancet. 2020 Aug 8;396(10248):413-446. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(20)30367-6. Epub 2020 Jul 30. PMID: 32738937; PMCID: PMC7392084.