Dementia and Hearing Loss: Interrelationships and Treatment Considerations.

TitleDementia and Hearing Loss: Interrelationships and Treatment Considerations.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2018
AuthorsH Hubbard I, Mamo SK, Hopper T
JournalSemin Speech Lang
Volume39
Issue3
Pagination197-210
Date Published2018 07
ISSN1098-9056
KeywordsAudiology, Dementia, Hearing Aids, Hearing Loss, Humans, Speech-Language Pathology
Abstract

Hearing loss is common among typically aging older adults and those with dementia. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the relationship between hearing and cognition among older adults, and in hearing loss as a modifiable risk factor for dementia. However, relatively less attention has been focused on the management of hearing loss among individuals with dementia and the key roles of speech-language pathologists and audiologists in providing such care. In this article, the authors review the literature on hearing loss and dementia, and analyze the research evidence for treatment of hearing loss in the context of major neurocognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. This article provides an up-to-date review of research evidence for hearing interventions, as well as recommendations for speech-language pathologists and audiologists to work together to ensure access to hearing health care and increased opportunities for meaningful life engagement for people with dementia and hearing loss.

DOI10.1055/s-0038-1660779
Alternate JournalSemin Speech Lang
PubMed ID29933487