Author(s)
Kyoungho Park, MD, PhD
Sunwoo Lee, MD
Affiliation(s)
The Catholic University of Korea Seoul
Abstract:
Objective: Assessment of the association between hearing loss and cognitive disorders
Study Design: Retrospective case review
Setting: Tertiary referral center; ambulatory
Patients: A total of 801 participants aged =60 years. The mean age was 77.1?±?9.7 years, and the sex distribution was 313 males and 488 females.
Interventions: Speech audiometry was performed bilaterally. Cognitive function was assessed by using the Korea Mini-Mental State Examination (K–MMSE) and the Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery.
Main Outcome Measures: The mean speech recognition threshold was 39.6?±?4.8 dB, and the speech discrimination score averaged 74.3?±?29.9%. The mean K–MMSE score was 25.1?±?4.3. Cognitive status was categorized as normal (n?=?205), mild cognitive impairment (n?=?438), and dementia (n?=?158).
Results: Logistic regression revealed that age, sex, and hearing loss were significantly associated with cognitive impairment (p?Conclusions: The integration of audiological screening into cognitive risk assessments and raise the possibility that addressing hearing loss may help preserve cognitive function during aging.
Learning Objective: To emphasize the clinical importance of early hearing assessment and intervention to prevent cognitive decline.
Desired Result: Early intervention at the stage of mild hearing loss is crucial to prevent further deterioration of hearing and associated cognitive decline.
Level of Evidence - Level V
Indicate IRB or IACUC: Exempt