Just as a car’s engine and its tires work together to propel it forward, age-related hearing loss (ARHL) and cognitive impairment/dementia are intricately connected. In a recent umbrella review that evaluated multiple studies, it was found that ARHL is significantly associated with cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. Think of it like a game of dominoes: if one piece falls, the rest follow suit. Similarly, when hearing is compromised, the cognitive abilities and memory can be affected. The study also highlighted the high risk factor that hearing loss poses for cognitive decline and dementia. It’s like having a loose thread on your favorite sweater – if left untreated, it could unravel the entire garment. Although more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between these conditions, this review serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize hearing health. So go ahead and dive into the underlying research to learn more about this captivating association!
BackgroundHearing loss, cognitive impairment and dementia have become common problems for older adults. Currently, systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the association between age-related hearing loss (ARHL) with cognitive impairment and dementia may have inconsistent results. To explore and validate the association between ARHL with cognitive impairment and dementia through summarizing and evaluating existing evidence.MethodsFrom inception to February 01, 2023, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched. AMSTAR 2 was used to evaluate methodological quality and GRADE system was used to evaluate evidence quality. We summarized the basic characteristics of the included studies and extracted effect data for ARHL with cognitive impairment and dementia. Forest plots were used to describe the relative risk associated with ARHL and cognitive impairment, and the relative risk associated with ARHL and dementia, respectively.ResultsA total of 11 systematic reviews and meta-analyses met the inclusion criteria. Overall, the methodological quality of the included SRs/MAs was moderate and the quality of the evidence was low. The combined results found that the pooled risk ratio of ARHL and cognitive impairment was 1.30 (random-effects; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.45), and the pooled risk ratio of ARHL and dementia was 1.59 (random-effects; 95% CI 1.34 to 1.90).ConclusionBased on the evidence reported in this umbrella review, age-related hearing loss is significantly associated with cognitive impairment and dementia. Hearing loss may be a high risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.