Dementia linked to loss of hearing
Scientists will study thousands of West Australians to find out if treating hearing loss can stop or delay dementia.
They are investigating a newly discovered link of higher rates of dementia in people with hearing problems, which is thought to be because the brain has to work harder or is changed by the hearing impairment.
Research in the US suggests older adults with hearing loss suffer cognitive decline up to 40 per cent faster than those with normal hearing.
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The Perth-based Ear Science Institute Australia has been given a $2.4 million Lotterywest grant to study the link in people aged 55 and over.
It will include more than 2000 people from the Busselton Health Study, 300 of the institute's cochlear implant recipients and more than 1000 hearing-aid users from Lions hearing clinics.
Institute director Marcus Atlas said that while the association between hearing impairment and cognitive decline was not yet understood, the impact of restoring hearing had other potential health benefits.
"It is theorised that when listening becomes more challenging with hearing loss, our brains work harder and the increased demand has long-term consequences for brain health," he said.
Professor Atlas said it was important baby boomers had regular hearing checks.
There are about 5.5 million baby boomers living in Australia. By 2051 an estimated 6.4 million people will be over 65.
