Effects of wearing hearing aids on gait and cognition: A pilot study.

Abstract

Introduction: Positive effects of hearing aids (HA) have been suggested. However, their impact on gait performance, which is closely associated with hearing loss and cognition, remains unclear. This pilot study assessed the effect of HA use on gait performance among patients with age-related hearing loss (ARHL).

Methods: This single-arm trial compared gait performance in ARHL patients before and after HA use. Participants diagnosed with ARHL and prescribed HA by an audiologist wore the HA gradually over one week. They subsequently underwent a baseline assessment prior to consistent HA use. After one year of HA use, the participants were re-evaluated with assessments of gait and cognitive performance, fear of falling, incidental falls, and well-being using the WHO-5.

Results: Of the 10 participants included, one withdrew during the follow-up period. Intention-to-treat analyses showed improvements in step time at both usual and maximum paces associated with HA use. Cognitive function, measured by Montreal Cognitive Assessment and delayed verbal recall on the logical memory test, also improved significantly at follow-up. Furthermore, reduced fear of falling and increased WHO-5 scores were observed after one year of HA use. However, the rate of incidental falls did not decrease.

Conclusion: HA use may contribute to improved gait performance, reduced anxiety related to physical function, enhanced cognitive function, and overall well-being. Although these results should be interpreted with caution due to the non-randomized controlled trial design and small sample size, the findings suggest that improving hearing acuity among older adults may enhance their overall health status.