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20Q: Hearing Loss, Hearing Aids and Dementia - Don’t Let the Science be Hijacked by Hype

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1.  Is there an association between sensory function and cognition? Yes No Unclear Not relevant

2.  What have studies linking hearing and cognition investigated? Hearing and cognitive performance Hearing and cognitive decline Hearing and incident dementia All of the above

3.  How would the current evidence that hearing aids reduce the risk of dementia, best be described? A small number of studies but good evidence that hearing aids reduce dementia risk. A large number of studies with good evidence that hearing aids reduce dementia risk. A small number of studies with little evidence that hearing aids reduce dementia risk. A large number of studies with little evidence that hearing aids reduce dementia risk.

4.  The association between hearing loss and cognitive decline may be because: Hearing loss reduces audibility and the impoverished auditory input changes how the brain functions. Hearing loss increases listening effort and the greater demand on our cognitive resources changes how the brain functions. There may be a factor that causes both hearing loss and cognitive decline. All of the above

5.  Which of the following statements is correct? It is appropriate to address hearing loss in terms of dementia prevention because there is clear evidence of benefit to the individual. It is inappropriate to address hearing loss in terms of dementia prevention on the grounds of relevance to the individual, and a lack of clear evidence of benefit. Audiologists should routinely check for dementia in all their patients. There is little evidence that hearing aids facilitate active, independent, engaged and healthier older age.