Sensory Impairment and Dementia Risk

Relationship Between Sensory Loss and Dementia

Hearing loss is a significant risk factor for the development of dementia, as confirmed by prospective cohort studies, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 1, 2
The mechanism underlying cognitive decline related to hearing loss is not fully understood but may involve hearing loss-related social isolation, structural changes of the brain, and depletion of cognitive reserve, as suggested by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 1
Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is associated with increased odds of social isolation, which is a known independent risk factor for cognitive decline, as reported by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 2

Social isolation due to communication difficulties from hearing loss may impair coping mechanisms, limit brain stimulation, and prevent physical exercise, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 2
Hearing loss significantly increases cognitive load, resulting in depletion of cognitive reserves, as found by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 5
Loss of more than one sensory function is significantly related to poorer mental health, as reported by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 1, 5

Hearing impairment should be assessed and recorded in primary clinics as a dementia risk factor, as recommended by the Alzheimer's Association 3, 4, 6
Persons with cognitive complaints, mild cognitive impairment, or dementia should be questioned about symptoms of hearing loss, according to the Alzheimer's Association 3, 4
If hearing loss symptoms are reported, audiometry should be conducted by a qualified audiologist, and if confirmed, audiologic rehabilitation may be recommended, as suggested by the Alzheimer's Association 3, 4
Treatment approaches should include audiological examination and/or otoscopic examination, review of medications for potential ototoxicity, and referral to otolaryngology for persons with chronic otitis media or who fail otoscopy, as recommended by the Alzheimer's Association 3, 4

Sensory impairments are often underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to underestimation of their impact on dementia risk, as noted by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 2
The economic burden of hearing loss on the healthcare system is significant and may be underestimated due to omission of costs related to medical frailty, depression, and cognitive decline, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 2