Hearing impairment or loss presents a real daily challenge. It can lead to isolation and communication difficulties. Reduced alertness is also a common consequence. Over time, hearing loss can become a risk factor for cognitive decline. A University of Geneva (UNIGE) team investigated this link. They analyzed data from 33,000 older adults across Europe. The study examined the combined impact of hearing loss and loneliness on memory.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has concerning projections. Nearly 2.5 billion people will experience hearing loss by 2050. More than 25% of individuals over 60 have disabling hearing impairment. This loss creates social challenges. Additionally, it significantly increases cognitive decline risk in later life. This risk may be two to three times higher for affected individuals.
EXPLORING THE LONELINESS-COGNITION CONNECTION
A UNIGE team sought to investigate a new approach. They studied whether hearing difficulties combined with loneliness affected memory. This includes both objectively measured and subjectively perceived loneliness. This avenue of research is relatively new, explains Charikleia Lampraki. She is a postdoctoral researcher at UNIGE and the study’s first author. Few research teams have explored this promising area.
Researchers utilized data from the SHARE study. This is a longitudinal survey initiated in 2002. It examines the health and aging of Europeans aged 50 and above. Andreas Ihle, assistant professor and study director, noted the large sample. They used data from twelve countries, including Switzerland. This represented a sample of 33,000 people. Participants are surveyed every two years. They report on daily life, social connections, and perceptions. Standardized exercises test cognitive functions like episodic memory.
UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT PROFILES OF LONELINESS
The UNIGE research team identified three distinct profiles. These relate directly to social isolation and loneliness.
Three Key Profiles Identified
- Socially isolated and feel lonely: Individuals belonging to this group.
- Not socially isolated but still feel lonely: This group experiences subjective loneliness.
- Socially isolated but do not feel lonely: These individuals do not perceive loneliness.
The “Explosive” Impact of Isolation and Deafness
Scientists then examined cognitive decline trajectories. They looked at perceived isolation and hearing loss. Matthias Kliegel, a full professor at UNIGE and co-author, shared a key finding. He states, “people who were not socially isolated but who felt lonely saw their cognitive decline accelerate when they were deaf.”
THE CASE FOR EARLY HEARING CARE
These findings highlight the importance of integrated care. Addressing both hearing loss and emotional dimensions is crucial. This helps prevent cognitive decline. It is particularly important for those not socially isolated but feeling lonely. Simple hearing interventions, like hearing aids, can significantly help. They can enable fuller engagement in social life. Charikleia Lampraki concludes that removing this sensory barrier reinforces engagement. Ultimately, it protects cognitive health.
