Brain Health, Cognition, and Audition-Brain Health, Cognition, and Audition Handout 8

Brain Health, Cognition, and Audition Handout 8

Pdf Summary

The US health system currently lacks the ability to identify and treat patients at risk for neurocognitive disorders early on, despite evidence that patients with auditory and sensory deprivation are at higher risk. Primary care physicians often do not have the time to screen or refer patients for cognitive concerns, while hearing care professionals (HCPs) are well-positioned to identify patients with possible neurocognitive disorders through their management of auditory sensory deprivation. "Sensory-based clinics" such as audiology clinics provide an opportunity to screen for cognitive function and offer risk-modifying treatments, such as hearing aids and assistive listening devices. <br /><br />Early identification and modification of risk factors for neurocognitive disorders is crucial for maintaining cognitive health. Modifiable risk factors include education level, hypertension, hearing impairment, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, low social contact, air pollution, alcohol consumption, and traumatic brain injury. By addressing these risk factors, individuals have the potential to reduce their personal risk of dementia and improve their quality of life.<br /><br />There is a strong link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, with reports suggesting that patients with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer's Disease and experience faster progression. Auditory sensory deprivation causes physical changes in the brain that negatively impact cognitive processing, and as cognitive abilities decrease, the demand on the auditory system increases. Therefore, addressing hearing loss through amplification with hearing aids can have a positive impact on cognitive function.<br /><br />Cognitive screenings in otolaryngology clinics, along with comprehensive audiometric evaluations, can provide valuable information about the cognitive abilities of patients with hearing loss. These screenings can help identify individuals at risk for cognitive decline and facilitate early intervention and treatment. <br /><br />Further research is needed to explore the relationship between cognition and hearing aids, as well as the potential benefits of cognitive screenings for cochlear implant candidates. Biomarker tests specific to neurocognitive disorders are being developed and may provide opportunities for early detection and intervention. However, there are currently no universally-accepted biomarkers or effective pharmaceutical treatments for neurocognitive disorders.<br /><br />In conclusion, incorporating cognitive screenings into otolaryngology clinics can play a crucial role in identifying and addressing cognitive impairment in individuals with auditory and sensory deprivation. Early intervention and risk factor modification have the potential to improve cognitive health and overall quality of life for patients.

Keywords

US health system

neurocognitive disorders

auditory sensory deprivation

primary care physicians

hearing care professionals

sensory-based clinics

cognitive function

risk factors

hearing loss

cognitive screenings