Hearing loss significantly impacts our community, with nearly one in three individuals aged 65-74 experiencing some degree of impairment. Even more concerning is the growing link between hearing loss, cognitive decline, and dementia. Dr. Jing Shen, Director of the Speech Perception and Cognition Lab at Temple College of Public Health (CPH), and her team are actively leading efforts to tackle this issue and make a meaningful impact.  

The Silent Impact of Hearing Loss 

Hearing loss affects a substantial portion of the older adult population, and the prevalence increases with age, reaching almost half of those over 75. Among this group, the risk of developing dementia increases by 7%. These statistics underscore the urgency of making hearing health a public health priority. 

The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Dementia 

Researchers are still exploring the mechanisms behind the relationship between hearing loss and dementia. Dr. Shen points out a few key factors that might contribute to this connection: 

• Reduced Brain Activation: Hearing loss leads to less auditory input, resulting in reduced activation in certain areas of the brain. This lack of stimulation can accelerate brain atrophy. 

• Social Withdrawal: Individuals with hearing loss often withdraw from social interactions due to difficulties in communication. Social isolation is a known risk factor for dementia, and reduced engagement can have a compounding effect on cognitive decline. 

• Increased Cognitive Effort: Hearing loss requires individuals to exert more effort to communicate, depleting cognitive resources that would otherwise be used for memory and other cognitive functions. 

Making a Difference Through Community Engagement 

Dr. Shen and her team offer essential hearing tests and professional counseling to older adults, providing them with the tools and knowledge to manage their hearing health effectively. By participating in community events for seniors, they ensure that vital information about hearing health reaches those who need it most. 

"Our effort has been recognized by many older participants, as reflected by the thank-you cards and emails we receive," Dr. Shen shares. This positive feedback underscores the importance of accessible hearing care and education. 

Training the Next Generation 

CPH is not only focused on immediate interventions but also on long-term impact by training the next generation of audiologists and speech pathologists. Dr. Shen provides undergraduate students with hands-on research experience, preparing them to become future leaders in audiology and speech pathology. Many of these students have gone on to prestigious graduate programs, contributing to the expansion of hearing health care and awareness. 

A Sound Approach to Community Health 

Temple’s College of Public Health is at the forefront of promoting hearing health, with a focus on improving cognitive well-being in the community. Dean Jennifer Ibrahim expresses her pride in their efforts, stating, “I am so proud of the groundbreaking work being done by the Speech Perception and Cognition Lab in advancing hearing health at CPH. Their focus on early intervention and holistic care is making a real difference, helping older adults stay engaged and connected.”