Description:

This round table session will explore the multifaceted impact of hearing aid use on cognitive function and subjective tinnitus among patients with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The discussion will bring together audiologists, neurologists, cognitive scientists, and patient advocates to examine current research, clinical experiences, and patient-reported outcomes related to the cognitive benefits and tinnitus management facilitated by hearing aids. Key topics include mechanisms by which hearing amplification may influence cognitive load, tinnitus perception, and overall quality of life. The session aims to identify gaps in understanding and outline collaborative approaches to optimize hearing aid interventions for cognitive and tinnitus-related outcomes.

Outcome Objectives:

Understand the relationship between hearing aid use and cognitive function in patients with SNHL, including potential mechanisms underlying cognitive improvements.

Discuss the impact of hearing aids on subjective tinnitus symptoms and the variability in patient responses.

Identify clinical strategies for assessing and managing tinnitus and cognitive challenges in hearing aid users.

Background:

Sensorineural hearing loss is frequently accompanied by cognitive decline and tinnitus, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that hearing aids not only improve auditory input but may also alleviate cognitive burden by enhancing auditory processing, thereby potentially slowing cognitive decline. Similarly, hearing aids may modulate tinnitus perception, although outcomes vary widely among individuals.