Multitasking, such as listening while balancing, relies on integrated processing in the sensory, cognitive, and motor systems; systems that often decline with age. Hearing loss is linked to increased risks of both falls and cognitive decline. Improving cognitive processing through executive function (EF) training may support balance, especially in older adults with hearing loss....
If executive function training is shown to improve dual-task and balance performance in adults with hearing loss, audiologists may consider recommending cognitive training as a complement to hearing rehabilitation, but results should be reviewed before changing practice.
Demonstrating that cognitive training can offset the balance and dual-task deficits linked to hearing loss would broaden the scope of auditory rehabilitation beyond hearing aids alone.
- 01Investigated whether executive function training improves balance in adults with and without hearing loss.