Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

6-2016

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Au.D.

Program

Audiology

Advisor

Barbara Weinstein

Subject Categories

Speech Pathology and Audiology

Keywords

hearing aids, amplification, cognition, dementia, cognitive decline

Abstract

This systematic review analyzed the research relating the use of hearing aids to cognitive function. Hearing aid use was examined to see if wearing hearing aids improves cognitive function, if the length of time hearing aids are worn impacts cognitive ability, if the type of hearing aid used has any impact on cognitive function, and if hearing aid use slows down cognitive decline. Ten studies met the criteria for this review. An analysis of the research revealed some evidence to support wearing hearing aids improves cognitive function, however, there is substantial evidence that shows no impact between wearing hearing aids and cognitive function. The length of time people wear hearing aids or the type of hearing aids could not be determined as a factor in change in cognitive function. More research needs to be conducted, and is currently underway, to prove the impact hearing aid use has on cognitive ability.

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