By Alexander Segal, student of the Master in Clinical Audiology and Hearing Therapy

Abstract

This systematic review examined the relationship between moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss (≥40 dB HL) and cognitive decline in adults aged 70 and over, and the role of hearing aid intervention. Evidence from randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, and meta-analyses published between 2010 and 2025 was reviewed. Untreated hearing loss of ≥40 dB HL was consistently associated with faster cognitive decline, with dementia prevalence 61% higher than in normal-hearing peers. Hearing aid intervention was associated with up to a 48% reduction in cognitive decline among high-risk older adults. Three interacting mechanisms were identified: increased cognitive load, social isolation, and neurological change. The findings support timely audiological intervention as an important component of dementia prevention in this population.

Keywords: sensorineural hearing loss, cognitive decline, dementia, hearing aid intervention, older adults, auditory rehabilitation.

Download the full Research Work: Segal, A. (2025). Hearing Aid Intervention and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults with Moderate-to-Severe Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review. SAERA