The effect of hearing loss on balance in subjects with cognitive disorders

Abstract

Background Falls among older adults are a major health issue. Cognitive impairment is known to be an independent risk factor for falls with around 60% of people with cognitive impairment falling each year. Presbycusis is also associated increased risk of falls in older adults. Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between hearing loss and balance in subjects with cognitive disorders. Methods Pure tone air and bone conduction thresholds, speech recognition thresholds and discrimination were measured. The Sensory Organization Test (SOT) and Adaptation Test (ADT) were performed. Results Subjects with mild hearing loss has the highest scores on SOT and composite scores while subjects with severe hearing loss has worst scores. There was no statistically significant difference between groups on ADT scores. Conclusions Hearing loss and cognitive disorders are independent risk factors for impaired balance among older adults with cognitive decline. Hearing and balance assessment and rehabilitation should be considered in the routine evaluations of older adults.