Is There a Connection Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline?

Several studies using a variety of techniques have already demonstrated that cochlear implants restore at least some key elements of brain structure and function that decline or are lost due to hearing loss (JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015;141:442–450; Clin Interv Aging. 2018;13:701–712; Sci Rep. 2017;7:16900). “Thus, data are suggestive that cochlear implants may help slow cognitive decline,” said Dr. Hansen. “The same questions are also currently being applied to hearing aids. However, since the risk of cognitive decline is strongly linked to the extent of hearing loss, one might assume that cochlear implants may have a more dramatic impact since they are targeted to the highest risk population.”

One concern with cochlear implants is that they may require concerted practice and some facility with technology, and perhaps older patients or those with cognitive impairment would not do well with them. Dr. Breen and his colleagues are participating in a multi-institutional prospective trial examining cognitive and hearing outcomes for patients with severe hearing loss. “The group of patients randomized to undergo a trial of hearing aids will be compared to patients who undergo implantation,” he said. “Our hope is that for appropriately selected patients with severe hearing loss, cochlear implants are at least as helpful as hearing aids in preventing cognitive decline.”—KA