A recent study suggests that providing hearing aids to older adults may help them maintain social connections, potentially reducing the loneliness that many experience as they age. Researchers believe that this approach could help address the growing issue of loneliness among seniors in the U.S.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 25% of older adults report having little or no social interaction, and about one-third feel lonely.
Experts believe that hearing loss is partly to blame, as it makes communication and building relationships more difficult. In fact, the 2023 U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory highlighted improving social connections as a key priority, alongside addressing issues like smoking, obesity, and addiction.
Led by researchers from NYU Langone Health as part of the ACHIEVE clinical trial, the study found that older adults who received treatment for hearing loss, including hearing aids, were able to maintain one extra social connection on average over a three-year period compared to those who did not receive any hearing treatment.
The study, published online on May 12 in JAMA Internal Medicine, also revealed that people who were treated for hearing loss had more diverse social networks. These networks included a variety of relationships with family members, friends, and acquaintances, and these bonds were generally deeper and higher in quality.
Loneliness and hearing loss have both been linked to various health issues, including depression, heart disease, and even early death. According to Dr. Reed, a faculty member at NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine, a 2023 report on the ACHIEVE trial also showed that addressing hearing loss could slow cognitive decline in people at high risk of dementia.
“The results of this study reinforce the importance of including hearing aids in Medicare coverage to help combat the nation’s social isolation crisis, which is especially dangerous for older adults,” said Dr. Josef Coresh, co-principal investigator of the ACHIEVE trial.
“Helping older Americans stay engaged with their families and friends is a crucial part of maintaining their quality of life.”
The study involved nearly 1,000 participants aged 70 to 84 from four states: Maryland, North Carolina, Minnesota, and Mississippi. The research is one of the largest to explore whether hearing care can prevent the weakening of social networks in older adults. Half of the participants received hearing aids, counseling, and personalized sessions with audiologists, while the other half received educational resources on healthy aging.
To assess social isolation, the researchers looked at how often participants interacted with others, the size and variety of their social circles, and the strength of their relationships. They also measured loneliness through a 20-question survey that evaluated how often participants felt disconnected from others. Follow-ups were conducted at six months and annually for three years.
Before the treatment, both groups of participants reported similar levels of loneliness. However, after three years, those who received hearing care had slightly lower loneliness scores, while those who did not experience worsening scores.
The cost of hearing aids and related services averages around $4,700, which is often paid out of pocket. Dr. Coresh notes that the study participants received top-level care, with quick replacements for damaged hearing aids and personalized support that may not be available to the general public.
The researchers plan to continue monitoring participants for another three years and aim to include a more diverse group in future studies. They also acknowledge that the care provided in the study was more extensive than what most people receive.
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