Dr. Dona Jayakody, a Professional Audiologist at Ear Science, stated that hearing aids might be capable of reducing the onset of dementia in older adults. She further elucidated how her research led her to the association between hearing loss and dementia.
"My research found that hearing loss is associated with cognitive impairment/dementia so I was interested in finding out whether this could be delayed or arrested by treating hearing loss," said Jayakody. "Current data suggests hearing loss accounts for 8% of the modifiable risk factors of all cases of dementia."
According to the Ear Science Institute of Australia (ESIA), Dr. Jayakody spearheads the research for the Hearing Loss Project, also known as ACHLOS. Her specialization lies in identifying hearing loss and its correlation with dementia, as well as developing hearing assessments. As she continues to lead research in ACHLOS, Jayakody has fostered numerous partnerships, raising $3.3 million for the project at ESIA. After receiving her PhD from the University of Christchurch in New Zealand, she continues her work by serving as an associate for Frontiers in Neuroscience.
As reported by ENT & Audiology News, ESIA is currently implementing HearCog, a program aimed at assessing hearing loss and dementia. Historically, hearing loss has not been commonly linked to forms of dementia. However, HearCog is investigating the possibility that these two conditions are closely intertwined despite previous lack of research. This 24-month trial aims to test whether hearing aids can indeed aid in mitigating short-term dementia. The program includes 180 adults who experience both hearing loss and minor dementia. The experimental aspect of this program involves analyzing patients' hearing capabilities along with their mental and physical skills.
The ESIA has been committed to improving lives through better understanding and treatment of hearing issues for over 20 years. Operating as a non-profit research institute, it is dedicated to aiding those struggling with hearing loss. With a team comprising audiologists, researchers, clinicians among others, they strive to provide an invigorating and determined atmosphere conducive to discovering new resources on hearing.
