Hearing loss as a risk factor for dementia: A systematic review

Abstract

ObjectivesTo review evidence of hearing loss as a risk factor for dementia. Data Sources: PubMed Review methods: A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed database using the search terms (hearing loss OR presbycusis) AND (dementia OR cognitive decline). Initially, 488 articles were obtained. Only those studies evaluating an association between hearing loss and incident dementia or cognitive decline were included in the analysis. This resulted in 17 articles which were thoroughly evaluated with consideration for study design, method for determining hearing loss and cognitive status, relevant covariates and confounding factors, and key findings.ResultsAll of the 17 articles meeting inclusion criteria indicate that hearing loss is associated with dementia or cognitive decline. The methods used among the studies for ascertaining hearing loss and dementia were notably varied. For hearing loss, peripheral auditory function was tested far more than central auditory function. For peripheral audition, pure tone audiometry was the most commonly reported method for defining hearing loss. Only a few studies measured central auditory function by using the Synthetic Sentence Identification with Ipsilateral Competing Message test (SSI‐ICM) and the Staggered Spondaic Word Test (SSW). Dementia was most often defined using the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE). However, many studies used extensive batteries of tests to define cognitive status, often including a neuropsychologist. Confounding variables such as cardiovascular risk factors were measured in 17 studies and family history of dementia was only evaluated in 1 study. Overall, the methods used by studies to ascertain hearing loss, cognitive status and other variables are valid, making their evaluation appear reliable.ConclusionWhile each of the studies included in this study utilized slightly different methods for evaluating participants, each of them demonstrated that hearing loss is associated with higher incidence of dementia in older adults.Level of EvidenceLevel V, systematic review.

Risk factors of dementia: a comparative study among the geriatric age group in Ernakulam, Southern India

“…Even though no causal link has been established between hearing loss and dementia, many epidemiological studies have shown hearing loss as a risk factor for developing dementia. 14,15 Our study showed significantly higher risk of dementia among the middle old age group [OR 2.39 (1.00-5.70)]. Studies conducted in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and other parts of Northern India also reported increasing age as a nonmodifiable risk factor of dementia.…”

Prevalence of adult unilateral hearing loss and hearing aid use in the United States

“…16,17 Although the implications of UHL in adults is not well studied, recent data show poorer cognitive function in adults with bilateral HL. [7][8][9][10][11][12] Given the minimal risk of hearing aid use, but the potential benefit, we recommend public health education about the importance of testing for and treating UHL in adults.…”

Cognitive Functions in Adult Cochlear Implant Users, Cochlear Implant Candidates, and Normal‐Hearing Listeners

“…Over the past 20 years, significant efforts have been devoted to identifying a link between hearing loss and cognitive dysfunction . A recent systematic review identified 17 studies, each of which suggested at least a weak correlation between age‐related hearing loss and dementia . If hearing loss contributes to cognitive decline, then hearing restoration may represent a modifiable risk factor to ameliorate cognitive decline.…”