New research shows that mild or disabling hearing loss in middle-aged and older adults is linked to cognitive impairment. However, unlike previous studies, no overall cognitive benefits were observed from using hearing aids, except in those with depression. The study suggests that individuals with hearing loss should be monitored for cognitive function. These findings, published on October 1 in JAMA Network Open, emphasise the heightened risk of cognitive decline in those with hearing loss.
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That’s really interesting but also kind of concerning! I’ve always heard that hearing aids help improve quality of life, so it’s surprising that they don’t seem to have overall cognitive benefits except for people with depression. Do you think there could be other factors that might explain why hearing aids don’t improve cognitive function for everyone? And since the study highlights the need to monitor cognitive function in people with hearing loss, are there specific ways doctors can track or prevent this decline?