Clinical Considerations for Hearing Loss in Those With Dementia

Abstract

The over-arching goal of this paper is to provide the audiologist with person-centered recommendations backed by the current research for the evaluation, counseling, rehabilitation, treatment, and management of hearing loss in individuals with dementia or cognitive decline. The overlapping symptoms of untreated hearing loss and dementia necessitate the audiologist’s role in accurate identification and appropriate referrals. A systematic review was undertaken to synthesize research findings on the adaptive strategies proposed in the literature for hearing care for individuals with dementia. The literature review highlights the importance of adapting traditional audiometric assessments to accommodate the cognitive impairments associated with dementia. Clinically, a shift toward a more proactive, person-centered care model is essential for audiologists working with patients with dementia. By expanding their practice beyond hearing aid provision to include comprehensive, tailored interventions that account for cognitive status, audiologists can make a significant impact on the lives of both patients and caregivers. For audiologists and other hearing care professionals, developing evidence-based guidance, such as the recommendations summarized in the Appendix, would support maintaining and improving the quality of care for patients with dementia and hearing loss. Drawing on an extensive range of sources, the Appendix presents current recommendations based on the findings of this systematic review.