Loneliness and hearing affect the mind

GENEVA (EFE).— A scientific study led by the University of Geneva concluded that the combination of hearing loss and feelings of loneliness, even without actual social isolation, significantly accelerates cognitive decline in older adults.

Researchers defined this combination as an “explosive cocktail,” after observing that “partial or total hearing loss can lead to real isolation, communication difficulties, and decreased alertness,” according to the study team.

The research began in 2002 and analyzed data from 33,000 people over the age of 50, living in various European countries.

Every two years, the participants were assessed on various aspects of their daily lives and their emotional state. "They were also given standardized episodic memory tests, which assess long-term autobiographical memories," the authors stated.

One of the main objectives was to establish a link between hearing loss and feelings of loneliness—whether objective or subjective—and the decline of cognitive functions. "We wanted to launch a new approach to understanding how these factors interact with brain aging," they added.

The results suggest that both the perception of loneliness and hearing difficulties increase the risk of mental decline. “The feeling of loneliness does not always coincide with social isolation, but its effect on cognitive health is equally important,” the report warned.

According to figures from the World Health Organization, by 2050, some 2.5 billion people will have some form of hearing loss.

Currently, more than 25% of adults over the age of 60 already have a hearing impairment that affects their quality of life and mental health.