Cognitive Decline within the Audiology Scope of Practice

A special issue of Audiology Research (ISSN 2039-4349).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 October 2023) | Viewed by 6575

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Communication Science and Disorders, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
Interests: aging; auditory processing; auditory training; cortical auditory evoked potentials; relationship between hearing and cognition

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recent literature suggests a relationship between pure-tone hearing and cognitive function as well as between some measures of auditory processing and cognitive function. Emerging data suggests other measures that fall within the audiology scope of practice may serve as useful early indicators of cognitive impairment as well. However, the clinical utility of these measures is currently unknown and guidance for practicing audiologists is minimal. As cognitive impairment is currently the most devastating and feared condition that older adults face and the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias will cost the US $321 billion in 2022, it is critical for older adults at risk to seek treatment early.  Unfortunately, most older adults only seek help when symptoms are very advanced and difficult to treat. Our referral process needs to improve.

This special issue is devoted to exploring the potential early indicators of cognitive impairment that fall within the audiology scope of practice with a goal of improving the referral process.

Prof. Dr. Jennifer Lister
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • cognition
  • dementia
  • mild cognitive impairment
  • cognitive impairment
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • scope of practice
  • hearing loss
  • vestibular function
  • auditory processing

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Published Papers (3 papers)

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Research

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18 pages, 1847 KiB  
Article
Neuropsychological Functions and Audiological Findings in Elderly Cochlear Implant Users: The Role of Attention in Postoperative Performance
by Ilaria Giallini, Bianca Maria Serena Inguscio, Maria Nicastri, Ginevra Portanova, Andrea Ciofalo, Annalisa Pace, Antonio Greco, Hilal Dincer D’Alessandro and Patrizia Mancini
Audiol. Res. 2023, 13(2), 236-253; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres13020022 - 27 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2172
Abstract
Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate in a group of elderly CI users working memory and attention, conventionally considered as predictors of better CI performance and to try to disentangle the effects of these cognitive domains on speech perception, finding potential markers [...] Read more.
Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate in a group of elderly CI users working memory and attention, conventionally considered as predictors of better CI performance and to try to disentangle the effects of these cognitive domains on speech perception, finding potential markers of cognitive decline related to audiometric findings. Methods Thirty postlingually deafened CI users aged >60 underwent an audiological evaluation followed by a cognitive assessment of attention and verbal working memory. A correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the associations between cognitive variables while a simple regression investigated the relationships between cognitive and audiological variables. Comparative analysis was performed to compare variables on the basis of subjects’ attention performance. Results: Attention was found to play a significant role in sound field and speech perception. Univariate analysis found a significant difference between poor and high attention performers, while regression analysis showed that attention significantly predicted recognition of words presented at Signal/Noise +10. Further, the high attention performers showed significantly higher scores than low attentional performers for all working memory tasks. Conclusion: Overall findings confirmed that a better cognitive performance may positively contribute to better speech perception outcomes, especially in complex listening situations. WM may play a crucial role in storage and processing of auditory-verbal stimuli and a robust attention may lead to better performance for speech perception in noise. Implementation of cognitive training in auditory rehabilitation of CI users should be investigated in order to improve cognitive and audiological performance in elderly CI users. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive Decline within the Audiology Scope of Practice)
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14 pages, 232 KiB  
Perspective
Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline in the Aging Population: Emerging Perspectives in Audiology
by Naveen K. Nagaraj
Audiol. Res. 2024, 14(3), 479-492; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres14030040 - 23 May 2024
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Abstract
In this perspective article, the author explores the connections between hearing loss, central auditory processing, and cognitive decline, offering insights into the complex dynamics at play. Drawing upon a range of studies, the relationship between age-related central auditory processing disorders and Alzheimer’s disease [...] Read more.
In this perspective article, the author explores the connections between hearing loss, central auditory processing, and cognitive decline, offering insights into the complex dynamics at play. Drawing upon a range of studies, the relationship between age-related central auditory processing disorders and Alzheimer’s disease is discussed, with the aim of enhancing our understanding of these interconnected conditions. Highlighting the evolving significance of audiologists in the dual management of cognitive health and hearing impairments, the author focuses on their role in identifying early signs of cognitive impairment and evaluates various cognitive screening tools used in this context. The discussion extends to adaptations of hearing assessments for older adults, especially those diagnosed with dementia, and highlights the significance of objective auditory electrophysiological tests. These tests are presented as vital in assessing the influence of aging and Alzheimer’s disease on auditory processing capabilities and to signal cognitive dysfunction. The article underscores the critical role of audiologists in addressing the challenges faced by the aging population. The perspective calls for further research to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in audiology, and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach in tackling the nexus of hearing loss, auditory processing, and cognitive decline. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive Decline within the Audiology Scope of Practice)
13 pages, 258 KiB  
Perspective
An Interprofessional Approach to Aural Rehabilitation for Adults with Hearing Loss and Cognitive Concerns
by Kate Helms Tillery and Aparna Rao
Audiol. Res. 2024, 14(1), 166-178; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres14010014 - 4 Feb 2024
Viewed by 1867
Abstract
Individuals with hearing loss are at risk for cognitive decline. The traditional approach to audiological care does not typically involve a team approach that addresses cognitive concerns. While cognitive screening is within the scope of practice in audiology, audiologists are not typically trained [...] Read more.
Individuals with hearing loss are at risk for cognitive decline. The traditional approach to audiological care does not typically involve a team approach that addresses cognitive concerns. While cognitive screening is within the scope of practice in audiology, audiologists are not typically trained in interpreting screening results or providing rehabilitation that supports cognitive health. However, as growing evidence shows that hearing loss is tied to cognitive decline, a team approach is required to support whole-person care. Speech–language pathologists, who specialize in optimizing communication, are best situated to collaborate with audiologists to provide holistic aural rehabilitation. Audiologists and speech–language pathologists who partner to support a client’s communication skills and social relationships play an important role in the life of an individual with hearing loss. In this perspective, we describe relevant background information about hearing loss and cognition and present an interprofessional approach to aural rehabilitation for adults with hearing loss who have cognitive concerns. We also discuss implications for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive Decline within the Audiology Scope of Practice)
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