"Previous studies have suggested that there could be a link between hearing loss and dementia. Our study is larger than the previous studies, and we have demonstrated a link between hearing loss and dementia, " said Assistant Professor Manuella Lech Cantuaria from the Department of Clinical Research at the University of Southern Denmark, in a press release.
For the study, researchers analyzed healthcare data collected from 573, 088 individuals from Southern Denmark between 2003 and 2017. All participants were aged 50 years and older, and none had dementia at the start of the study. They were followed for an average of 8.6 years.
For the analysis, the researchers compared rates of dementia among the participants with data on their hearing. Ultimately, they found that hearing loss was linked to a 7% increased risk of developing dementia. They also investigated how wearing hearing aids affects the risk of dementia.
"We found that the risk of developing dementia was 20% higher for people who didn't wear hearing aids compared to people with normal hearing. People who used hearing aids had a 6% increased risk of developing dementia. This suggests that wearing a hearing aid can prevent or delay the development of dementia," noted Prof. Lech Cantuaria.
The researchers wrote that their findings suggest hearing loss is linked to an increased risk of dementia and that hearing aids may prevent or delay the condition's onset and progression. They noted, however, that their risk estimates were lower than those found in previous studies, highlighting a need for further research in the area.
Sources: JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Science Daily, Medical News Today
