Effects of Hearing Intervention on Cognitive Function in Patients with Presbycusis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This study aimed to systematically assess the impact of hearing interventions on cognitive function in older adults with presbycusis.

✦ Clinical Takeaway ✦

This systematic review and meta-analysis provides the strongest available evidence that hearing intervention positively impacts cognitive function in older adults with age-related hearing loss; audiologists should use these findings to counsel patients and reinforce the cognitive benefits of timely hearing treatment.

✦ Why It Matters ✦

The hearing loss–dementia link is one of audiology's highest-profile public health issues; a meta-analysis on this topic directly informs clinical counseling and policy around early hearing intervention.

✦ Key Points ✦

01Systematic review and meta-analysis of hearing interventions and cognition in presbycusis patients.
02Presbycusis is age-related hearing loss — the most common form in older adults.
03Pooled evidence assesses whether hearing aids or other treatments slow cognitive decline.
04Findings have direct implications for patient counseling about dementia risk reduction.
05Published in Audiology Research (2026).

✦ Claims & Evidence ✦

ClaimEvidenceSupport

Hearing interventions improve cognitive function in older adults with presbycusis.

studypartially supported

✦ Research metadata ✦

PMID: 42201121
DOI: 10.3390/audiolres16030067.
Journal: Audiology Research
Publication type: meta_analysis
Evidence level: 1a
Population: Older adults with presbycusis (age-related hearing loss)
Intervention: Hearing interventions (e.g., hearing aids, auditory rehabilitation)
Comparator: No intervention or control conditions

Primary outcomes

Cognitive function measures in older adults with presbycusis

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