ABSTRACT
Background: Hearing loss had been recognized as one of the most common chronic conditions in the elderly population and was closely linked to social isolation, communication difficulties, and reduced quality of life. Recent evidence had also suggested a significant association between untreated hearing loss and accelerated cognitive decline. Despite its prevalence, hearing impairment in the elderly had often remained underdiagnosed and undertreated in clinical practice.
Aim: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of hearing loss among elderly patients, assess its impact on cognitive decline, and evaluate the effectiveness of available rehabilitation options.
Methods: This cross-sectional study had been conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad, over a period of twelve months from June 2024 to May 2025. The study population consisted of 80 elderly participants aged 60 years and above. Standard audiometric testing had been employed to assess the degree of hearing loss, while validated cognitive assessment tools had been used to evaluate cognitive function. Data regarding rehabilitation options, including hearing aids and counseling interventions, had also been recorded and analyzed.
Results: The findings showed that 62.5% of participants had some degree of hearing loss, with moderate-to-severe impairment present in 28.7%. A statistically significant correlation had been observed between the severity of hearing loss and lower cognitive assessment scores (p < 0.05). Participants who had received rehabilitation through hearing aids or counseling demonstrated better communication outcomes and reported improved quality of life compared to those without interventions.
Conclusion: The study concluded that hearing loss was highly prevalent among the elderly and had a notable impact on cognitive decline. Early detection and timely rehabilitation interventions such as hearing aids and counseling had played an important role in mitigating adverse outcomes and improving overall quality of life. These findings highlighted the necessity of routine hearing screening in elderly populations and the integration of audiological rehabilitation into geriatric care programs.
Keywords: Hearing loss, elderly, cognitive decline, prevalence, rehabilitation, hearing aids, quality of life.