Hearing Loss and Cognitive Impairment Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults - Liaoning, Henan, and Guangdong Provinces, China, 2019-2020.

ABSTRACT

What is already known about this topic? Many studies have shown that hearing loss (HL) is a risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia, but there are still limited studies on this association among Chinese older adults. What is added by this report? Based on the results of pure-tone audiometry tests, HL is associated with cognitive impairment in community-dwelling older adults. The odds ratios (ORs) were 1.23 (1.08-1.40) for mild HL, 1.55 (1.32-1.82) for moderate HL, and 1.87 (1.47-2.39) for severe or profound HL. What are the implications for public health practice? Enhanced public awareness of hearing protection is important for preventing cognitive impairment. It is advocated to promote the screening of HL and cognitive function assessment in elderly health examinations or management in primary care services.