Living with untreated hearing loss is challenging enough on its own, but recent studies have shown a direct correlation between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline.
This connection is becoming increasingly clear through numerous scientifically reviewed studies, which are revealing alarming statistics.
If you or a loved one is currently experiencing signs of hearing loss and have yet to address these challenges, we encourage you to read this article. The data is truly concerning and underscores the importance of timely intervention.
The Most Comprehensive Study to Date
In December 2022, CNN Health published a groundbreaking article detailing one of the most in-depth studies on the connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. Conducted by Brian Sheng Yep Yeo, MBBS; Harris Jun Jie Muhammad Danial Song, MBBS; and Emma Min Shuen Toh, MBBS, the study was published in JAMA Neurology and included data from 31 studies worldwide.
This extensive meta-analysis involved 137,484 participants from various regions, including Europe, North America, Asia, and Australasia. It examined the association between hearing loss and cognitive decline over periods ranging from two to 25 years.
With the prevalence of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) among adults aged 65 years and older at 11.7 percent, the connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive challenges is now more apparent than ever.
Key Findings from the Study
The study reveals two significant findings:
1. Reduction in Cognitive Decline:
The use of hearing aids was associated with a 19 percent reduction in long-term cognitive decline. Senior study author Dr. Benjamin Tan, Dean’s Fellow at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, emphasized the importance of early intervention. "Dementia is far easier to prevent than treat, and exceedingly difficult to reverse," he noted.
2. Benefit for Mild Cognitive Impairment:
Even patients with mild cognitive impairment, often referred to as early dementia, experienced benefits from using hearing aids. These patients had an approximately 20 percent lower risk of progressing to dementia. "This means that it is never too late to start using hearing aids, but early treatment may help to preserve the most cognition," the study highlighted.
Implications of the Study
The meta-analysis concluded that the use of hearing aids and cochlear implants is associated with a decreased risk of cognitive decline. Physicians are encouraged to strongly recommend these devices to patients with hearing loss.
This study, involving 137,484 participants, is the most comprehensive research conducted on the connection between cognitive decline and the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Takeaway for Patients and Families
Despite the regularity with which we check our teeth, eyes, and overall physical health, many of us neglect our hearing health. The data from this study is a stark reminder of the importance of hearing assessments.
A hearing test is simple, quick, and non-invasive, and it can provide a clear understanding of your hearing health, ensuring that any issues are monitored and addressed promptly.
Don’t Delay—Schedule a Hearing Test Today
If you or a loved one is concerned about hearing loss, Family Audiology is here to help.
With appointments for new patients currently available, please call us at (972) 943-0466 to schedule a convenient date and time for your visit.
Alternatively, you can request a callback, and a friendly member of our team will reach out to answer any questions you may have.
With untreated hearing loss only worsening over time, it’s crucial to address these issues as soon as possible.
Don’t delay—take charge of your hearing health today.
