Hearing loss is a growing public health issue affecting people of all ages, yet it is often overlooked in routine medical care. Research shows that untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, increased fall risk, and even premature departure from the workforce. As highlighted by the Canadian Academy of Audiologists (CAA), hearing is a social sense and as such must not be overlooked. By increasing awareness about hearing health—from early identification to hearing protection—there are many effective options to help individuals maintain optimal hearing throughout their lives.
Every May, during Hearing and Speech Month, hearing care professionals, non-profit organizations like the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA), and industry leaders come together to raise awareness about the importance of hearing health. Focusing on hearing health once a year is not enough and patients require a team of professionals supporting them.
Why Physicians Should Prioritize Hearing Health A study from the National Centre for Audiology at Western University found that even mild hearing loss in children can impact speech and language development, academic performance, and social engagement (Pichora-Fuller et al., 2021). Hearing Health Alliance Canada also emphasizes that childhood hearing loss, if undetected, can have long-term consequences on cognitive and emotional well-being. In addition, new guidelines now recommend that all adults undergo regular hearing screenings starting at age 50, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms. Screening every three years are recommended to detect changes early, as hearing loss often develops gradually and may go unnoticed for years.
To address the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), as declared by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly and lead by the World Health Organization, proactive hearing care should be a year-round priority.
Five Key Reasons to Refer Patients for Hearing Screenings at Age 50
1. Hearing Loss is Linked to Cognitive Decline and Dementia Multiple studies, including research by the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care, have established a strong association between hearing loss and
an increased risk of cognitive decline. The commission identified hearing loss as the largest modifiable risk factor for dementia, accounting for 8% of the total risk (Livingston et al., 2020). Early intervention with hearing aids or assistive devices may help slow cognitive decline.
2. Hearing Loss Can Lead to Depression and Social Isolation
A reduced ability to hear and communicate often results in withdrawal from social interactions, which can lead to loneliness and depression. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) reports that individuals with hearing loss are significantly more likely to experience depression than those with normal hearing (Cosh et al., 2019).
3. Hearing Loss Negatively Impacts Quality of Life
Patients with hearing loss frequently struggle to participate in social activities, maintain employment, and enjoy hobbies, leading to a diminished sense of independence. Studies suggest that untreated hearing loss contributes to lower job satisfaction and increased risk of early retirement (Davis et al., 2016).
4. Hearing Loss Increases the Risk of Falls
Older adults with hearing loss are up to three times more likely to experience falls compared to those with normal hearing, according to research from Johns Hopkins University (Lin & Ferrucci, 2012). The connection between hearing loss and balance issues highlights the need for early detection and intervention to prevent serious injuries.
5. Early Intervention Leads to Better Outcomes
Treating hearing loss early—whether through hearing aids, cochlear implants, or assistive listening devices—can significantly improve communication, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. The ACHIEVE study (Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders, 2023) found that individuals who began using hearing aids earlier had a slower rate of cognitive decline than those who delayed intervention.
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Encouraging Patients to “Know Their Hearing Number”
A key strategy for empowering patients in their hearing health journey is monitoring their “Hearing Number.” This concept provides a simple way for patients to track their hearing over time, much like blood pressure or cholesterol levels.
What is the Hearing Number?
The Hearing Number is a measurement based on the 4-frequency pure tone average (PTA4), which is used by the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify hearing ability. It represents the softest speech sounds an individual can hear in decibels (dB).
· A lower number (e.g., 0-10 dB) indicates normal hearing.
· A higher number (e.g., 40+ dB) suggests moderate-to-severe hearing loss.
· Each ear has its own Hearing Number, and monitoring changes over time allows for early intervention when needed.
Encouraging patients to track their Hearing Number regularly helps them take proactive steps to protect or optimize their hearing over their lifetime.
Download the educational factsheet to share this information with your patients: Know Your Hearing
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Supporting Patients with Hearing Loss
As a family physician, you play a crucial role in identifying, educating, and referring patients for hearing assessments. The Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA) provides valuable resources, support, and referrals for individuals navigating hearing loss.
For additional information and support for your patients, contact: 📧 Email: info@chha.ca 🌐 Website: www.chha.ca
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References
· Livingston, G., et al. (2020). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. Lancet, 396(10248), 413-446. DOI:10.1016/S0140-6736(20)30367-6
· Lin, F. R., & Ferrucci, L. (2012). Hearing loss and falls among older adults in the United States. Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(4), 369-371. DOI:10.1001/archinternmed.2011.728
· Pichora-Fuller, M. K., et al. (2021). The impact of mild hearing loss on children’s educational and social development. National Centre for Audiology, Western University.
· Cosh, S., et al. (2019). The association between hearing loss and depression in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 256, 764-774. DOI:10.1016/j.jad.2019.06.024
· ACHIEVE Study Group. (2023). Hearing intervention to reduce cognitive decline in older adults. Lancet.
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