Hearing Loss and Cognition

Cognitive decline refers to a decrease in one or more cognitive abilities, including memory, awareness, judgment and mental acuity. Researchers have conducted several studies in an attempt to determine whether there is a statistically significant correlation between hearing loss and an increased risk of cognitive decline.

Understanding the Possible Correlation

A 2013 Health ABC study of 1,984 older adults found a possible correlation between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. Compared with adults without hearing loss, participants with hearing loss had a 24% increased risk of cognitive issues, such as poor memory. The study found that an increase in the severity of a person’s initial hearing loss correlated with accelerated decline of cognitive abilities. The research does not mean that we can directly attribute the correlation to hearing loss. It only means that, among participants in the study, there was an identifiable increase in cognitive issues over six years among those with hearing loss, compared to those without. We cannot rule out the influence of other contributors, such as genetics, additional comorbid conditions or lifestyle factors. The study stated a need for additional research into the underlying cause of this correlation, including whether hearing aids could slow the rate of cognitive decline.

The Role of Hearing Aids

In a 2023 study, researchers looked at over 3,000 older adults and enrolled 977 participants in a trial from 2017 to 2019. Half of these participants were part of an existing research group called ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities), and the other half were new participants. During the study, one group received hearing loss treatment, and the second received general health education. Initially, when researchers looked at everyone together, they found no significant difference in cognitive decline over three years between the hearing intervention group and the control group. A specific prespecified sensitivity analysis indicated a difference between the hearing loss treatment group and the control group. However, they could not support this finding with additional prespecified sensitivity analyses that varied analytical parameters. We will need further research to make a definitive statement on the effect of hearing aids on cognitive decline.

What Does This Information Mean for Hearing Loss Patients?

Cognitive decline is complex. Because so many independent variables can influence the nature of cognitive decline in patients, no studies have identified a definitive, statistically significant correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t important to act on a hearing loss diagnosis. Outside of cognitive decline, it’s still crucial to understand the role hearing loss plays in our health. Many studies have shown definitive links between hearing loss and poor communication, mental well-being and balance. Early diagnosis and treatment with amplification devices is essential in limiting the negative impact of hearing loss on your life.