Research Suggests Hearing Loss Treatment Could Alleviate Senior Loneliness
A new study from NYU Langone Health has found that treating hearing loss in senior citizens could significantly reduce loneliness and improve social connections, mental and physical well-being. The research suggests that providing hearing aids, counseling, and personalized audiology support may help seniors maintain vital social relationships that often decline with age. This, in turn, may reduce feelings of isolation and enhance overall quality of life.
The study, one of the largest of its kind, tracked over 2,000 participants from four U.S. states: Maryland, North Carolina, Minnesota, and Mississippi. The participants were divided into two groups: one received hearing aids and counseling, while the other received education on healthy aging. After three years, the group that received hearing care saw their loneliness scores improve, while the other reported worsening isolation.
The researchers noted that untreated hearing loss is linked to increased risks of depression, heart disease, and premature death. This study adds to evidence that early intervention for hearing loss could also help slow cognitive decline and improve mental health, particularly among those at risk of dementia.
“Our findings add to evidence that helping aging patients hear better can also enrich their social lives and boost their mental and physical well-being,” said Professor Nicholas Reed, lead author of the study from the NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Optimal Aging Institute.
The researchers plan to continue following the study participants for another three years and aim to increase the diversity of their study group. They also emphasize the importance of expanding hearing aid coverage through Medicare to address the growing social isolation epidemic among the elderly.
“Making sure people can continue engaging with their family and friends as they age is a critical part of maintaining their quality of life,” added Co-principal investigator Professor Josef Coresh.