Cognitive decline in early onset hearing loss in Caucasian males
Hearing loss is a common issue that affects 1 in 6 Kiwis, but did you know that early onset hearing loss may also be linked to cognitive decline? Cognitive decline is defined as a decline in mental functioning, such as memory, attention and language. This can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and their ability to function independently. Research has shown that there is a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, particularly in cases of early onset hearing loss.
The relationship between hearing loss and cognitive decline
Research suggests that people with hearing loss are more likely to develop cognitive decline and dementia compared to those with normal hearing. The study also found that the risk of cognitive decline was higher in men who had hearing loss at a younger age. These studies also suggest that older adults with hearing loss had a faster rate of cognitive decline than those with normal hearing. This study also found that the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline was stronger in men than in women.
So, why is there a link between early onset hearing loss and cognitive decline? One theory is that hearing loss may lead to social isolation and reduced stimulation, which can contribute to cognitive decline. Additionally, hearing loss can also lead to increased mental effort and strain to understand speech, which can lead to mental fatigue and decreased cognitive function.
It's important to note that there are many factors that can contribute to cognitive decline and hearing loss is just one of them. However, it's clear that early onset hearing loss may be a risk factor for cognitive decline.
So, what can be done to manage this risk? The first step is to have your hearing checked by a qualified Audiologist, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of hearing loss. If a hearing loss is detected, then the Audiologist can recommend appropriate treatment options, such as hearing aids.
In addition to treating hearing loss, there are also other things that can be done to help manage the risk of cognitive decline. These include:
Staying mentally and physically active: Engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, such as reading, puzzles and games, and physical activity can help to maintain cognitive function.
Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and fish, and low in saturated fats can help to support brain health.
Managing chronic conditions: Conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can increase the risk of cognitive decline, so it's important to manage these conditions to help minimize the risk.
Managing stress: Chronic stress can have a negative impact on cognitive function, so it's important to find ways to manage stress and maintain emotional well-being.
It's also important to note that, while early onset hearing loss may be a risk factor for cognitive decline, it doesn't mean that every person with hearing loss will develop cognitive decline. However, it is important to be aware of the potential link and take steps to manage the risk.
In summary, early onset hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline. It is important to have your hearing checked by an experienced Audiologist and to take steps to manage the risk, such as treating hearing loss, staying mentally and physically active, eating a healthy diet, managing chronic conditions, and managing stress.
References
Castiglione, A., Casa, M., Gallo, S., Sorrentino, F., Dhima, S., Cilia, D., ... & Martini, A. (2019). Correspondence between cognitive and audiological evaluations among the elderly: a preliminary report of an audiological screening model of subjects at risk of cognitive decline with slight to moderate hearing loss. Frontiers in neuroscience, 13, 1279
Irace, A. L., Armstrong, N. M., Deal, J. A., Chern, A., Ferrucci, L., Lin, F. R., ... & Golub, J. S. (2022). Longitudinal associations of subclinical hearing loss with cognitive decline. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, 77(3), 623-631.
Mamo, S. K., Reed, N. S., Price, C., Occhipinti, D., Pletnikova, A., Lin, F. R., & Oh, E. S. (2018). Hearing loss treatment in older adults with cognitive impairment: a systematic review. Journal of speech, language, and hearing research, 61(10), 2589-2603.
Related reading
