Cognitive function and hearing loss: A longitudinal investigation of the effect of hearing aid use on cognitive performance in older adults

Abstract Background Hearing loss is highly prevalent in older adults and has been identified as the largest single potentially modifiable risk factor for dementia. Although hearing aids are a successful treatment for hearing loss, it is unknown whether their use can delay the onset of cognitive decline or improve cognitive function. Less than 20% of adults who would benefit from hearing aids actually using them. Results at 18‐ and 36‐months post‐hearing aid fitting in this prospective Australian longitudinal study will be presented. Method Participants were assessed before and every 18 months after hearing aid fitting. Results were compared with those of a control group of participants of a cohort study of aging in older adults (AIBL) and also with a large normative group using the cognitive assessment tool. Assessments included cognitive function (visually presented computerized assessment battery), hearing, speech perception, quality of life, activity, diet, loneliness and isolation, anxiety, depression, medical health, and genetic risk Result After 18 months of hearing aid use there was no significant cognitive decline for hearing aid participants, and group mean scores for executive function significantly improved, with stability or improvement for 92%. Comparative group results showed no improvement at 18 months. At 36‐month follow‐up, after almost 18 months of repeated COVID lockdowns, hearing aid use had decreased, and loneliness had increased. The previously observed improvement in executive function was no longer evident, but performance on 4/5 subtests remained stable. Conclusion This is the first study to follow participants for this length of time. After 36 months of hearing aid use, most participants had remained stable, and a subset had improved cognitive function. These results suggest that hearing aid use may not only delay cognitive decline but could improve cognitive function. This study will continue to investigate whether cognitive function could continue to improve for some participants, and the longer‐term trajectory of effects of hearing aid use.