New research has raised questions around the links between hearing loss and dementia. Here we share the latest findings as well as BIHIMA’s stance on the topic.
The links between hearing loss and dementia have been widely discussed for some time – in fact, the connections between sensory and cognitive function can be traced all the way back to the Victorian era.
It was a hot topic throughout 2023, with substantial research, initiatives and campaigns developed to highlight the impact of untreated hearing loss and dementia. Here at BIHIMA, we collaborated on a piece with Alzheimer’s Research UK about that very subject and how early intervention for hearing loss could drastically reduce cases of dementia.
Recently, new research has been published focused on ‘where we go from here’ in relation to these connections. We’re sharing some of the key findings and suggestions around how hearing health professionals can better manage these associations and the role that the industry has to play in safely sharing them.
How can the links between hearing loss and dementia be better managed?
While there is a significant buzz around the impact of untreated hearing loss on cognitive decline, the recent article published in the volume 45 issue of Ear and Hearing suggests that while there is some evidence to link hearing and cognitive function, studies aren’t substantial enough to provide concrete, irrefutable evidence. The article also suggests that by leaning into these links, audiologists and hearing instrument manufacturers could find themselves shifting into a scare tactics method of messaging compared to positive messaging focused on the undeniable benefits of addressing hearing loss.
This presents a challenge for audiologists and hearing technology specialists. Speaking of the findings in this new article, Paul Surridge – BIHIMA Chairman – said:
“Although we agree that we do not want hearing loss messages lost to dementia fears, we do think it’s important that people are aware of the risks. We know, for example, that social isolation can contribute to a person’s risk of developing dementia. We also know that untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation and loneliness.
“We have listened to the concerns raised in the article and subsequent conversations around the findings in industry publications, but we do strongly believe that any well managed message that draws people’s attention to understanding, treating and preventing hearing loss is a positive thing.
“Which begs the question – how do we manage this message in the best possible way? There is clearly a need for more research and conversation in this area before we can find a solution that doesn’t risk misinforming or confusing people.”
RELATED: WINTER BRINGS WITH IT A HIGHER RISK OF LONELINESS AND ISOLATION FOR THOSE WITH HEARING LOSS
What role do audiologists and hearing instrument manufacturers play?
The new research concluded with some valuable advice on how audiologists and hearing instrument manufacturers can positively move on from here.
Emphasise the benefits of treating hearing loss for its own sake.
Traditionally, hearing loss has been seen as a natural part of ageing. We know that the reality is very different. Hearing loss can be debilitating, impacting mental health, relationships, job opportunities and so much more. One of the main concerns in the latest research centres around the idea that almost all studies on hearing loss now mention how hearing loss is important as it is a risk for dementia.
“There’s a genuine concern that when we present dementia risk as a leading reason for why we need to address hearing loss, it places dementia as more important than the hearing loss itself. The risk here is that we create a narrative that hearing loss doesn’t matter as much. It’s therefore crucial that the hearing health industry pours emphasis into those overall benefits of treating hearing loss for its own sake – not just to mitigate the risk of dementia,” said Paul.
To ensure they are not reinforcing the stigma of hearing loss.
The article also discussed how the ‘scare tactic’ of motivating people to seek help for hearing loss by linking it to the risk of dementia could actually make people less likely to engage in the message being communicated. The suggestion was that ‘linking hearing loss to dementia risks could reinforce the stigma and resulting sense of personal thread, denial and dis-engagement with hearing loss that some people may experience in relation to hearing loss diagnosis’ (Wallhagen 2010; Blustein et al 2023).
“The campaigns and content that we have seen from leading hearing health and dementia organisations balance this well. We do feel it is important to share risks, but these must be balanced with the current and future benefits of looking after your hearing health and also cognitive function. Both sides of the coin are crucial to ensure we portray the full picture,” said Paul.
Recognising the nexus between hearing, cognition and functioning in daily life.
The research found that while hearing instruments are unlikely to actually reduce cognitive decline, they do support independent functions in daily life which, consequently, can reduce a person’s risk of dementia.
“We’re pleased that the study highlighted the benefits of treating hearing loss in improving a person’s ability to independently function, be an active member in society and enhance their ability to communicate. These are all important factors of a person’s wellbeing while also contributing to cognitive function. We don’t want the narrative around dementia to be lost entirely and we must work collectively as an industry to ensure it is accurately portrayed,” said Paul.
Supporting hearing needs of people with dementia.
The study concluded by talking about the high number of people living with dementia who also have untreated hearing loss and how this is a major concern because of the impact it has on their quality of life, mental wellbeing, communication, care burden and social participation.
“A vital point to take from this study is that – as an industry – we must ensure that audiology is a dementia-friendly profession. We must look for ways to more effectively recognise when a patient has dementia so that we can provide the very best patient-centred care for them. This will require collaboration between GPs, hearing health organisations, dementia organisations, audiologists and care facilities.
“We will continue working with like-minded organisations across healthcare and social care to better support the needs of people with hearing loss. Our intention is always to make hearing care as accessible as possible, and this starts with education – both across the hearing health industry and the general public.”
