Study on Cognitive Changes in Older Adults with Age-Related Hearing Loss Using Hearing Aids Over 5 Years

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how hearing aids might affect cognitive function in older adults with age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis. This study focuses on individuals aged 60 to 85 and aims to understand whether improving hearing ability can slow down the decline in memory and cognition associated with hearing loss. The research is being conducted at a single center and plans to follow participants for several years to assess changes over time. Participants are divided into two groups one group receives hearing aids and the other does not receive any intervention. Those in the hearing aid group will use the device continuously for five years. Follow-up visits occur every six months, during which various tests are performed, including hearing assessments, cognitive tests, and brain imaging. The study uses a double-blind, randomized design to compare outcomes between the groups. Throughout the study, participants will have their cognitive functions measured using tools like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment MoCA and the Mini-Mental Status Exam MMSE every six months. Hearing ability will also be evaluated regularly through audiometry tests. Researchers will monitor the effects of hearing aids on cognitive decline and hearing improvement over the five-year period. Safety and adherence to the hearing aid intervention will be tracked as well.

A Prospective Cohort Study On Change of Cognitive Function In Aged-related Hearing Loss With Hearing Aids