Research questions
Does consistent hearing aid use slow cognitive decline, as measured by use and changes across multiple cognitive domains using a cumulative score derived from Reaction Time, Numeric Memory, Pairs Matching, and Fluid Intelligence, compared to non-use?
How do cognitive trajectories differ between early adopters-individuals who began using hearing aids at the time they first reported hearing loss-and delayed adopters-those who initiated hearing aid use in later waves following an earlier report of hearing loss?
Does the duration of hearing aid use influence the rate of cognitive decline?
How do demographic, lifestyle, and cardiovascular factors influence this relationship?
Objectives
Primary
Determine if consistent hearing aid use over multiple waves is linked to slower cognitive decline compared with never-users.
Compare cognitive trajectories between early adopters and delayed adopters.
Secondary
Assess whether the duration of hearing aid use influences cognitive decline.
Rationale
Hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor for dementia, and hearing aids may mitigate cognitive decline by preserving auditory input. Observational data and the ACHIEVE trial support improved cognitive outcomes with hearing aid use, yet the optimal timing for initiation remains unclear. Most existing studies are cross-sectional, limiting insights into whether early or delayed adoption yields greater long-term benefits. Identifying the ideal intervention window is critical to delaying neurodegeneration. Our study leverages longitudinal data to compare cognitive trajectories between early adopters-those who use hearing aids concurrently with hearing loss report-and delayed adopters, who initiate use in later waves.
References
Livingston G, et al. Lancet. 2020;396(10248):413-46
Bucholc M, et al. Alzheimers Dement (N Y). 2022;8(1):e12248
Deal JA, et al. JAMA. 2023;329(6):471-80
Deal JA, et al. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2017;72(5):703-9