New Study Finds Memory Loss Could Be a Sign of Hearing Loss, Not Alzheimer's

A study from Baycrest published in the Canadian Journal on Aging suggests memory loss in older adults could be a sign of hearing loss rather than cognitive disorders, reports Interesting Engineering . Baycrest found 56 percent of study participants assessed for memory and thinking issues had some form of hearing loss, yet 25 percent exhibited no brain disorder symptoms. However, only about 20 percent were using hearing aids. "We commonly see clients who are worried about Alzheimer's disease because their partner complains that they don't seem to pay attention, they don't seem to listen, or they don't remember what is said to them," says Baycrest neuropsychologist Susan Vandermorris. "Sometimes addressing hearing loss may mitigate or fix what looks like a memory issue. An individual isn't going to remember something said to them if they didn't hear it properly." As a result of the study, Baycrest's Neuropsychology and Cognitive Health Program and Hearing Services have incorporated general hearing screenings into their evaluations, while Baycrest also is providing educational materials on these findings to clients.