Understanding Auditory Function and Its Impact on Fall Risk: All About Hearing’s Perspective

by | 08/25/2023 | Hearing Health, Patient Resources

Every step you take toward better hearing is a stride toward a more connected, fulfilling life.

At All About Hearing, we believe in the importance of staying updated with the latest research in the field of audiology to provide our community with the best care.

Recently, we came across an enlightening study by experts Joseph Sakumura, AuD, and Richard Gans, PhD, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Audiology.

This study delves deeply into the intricate relationship between cognitive, vestibular, and auditory functions and their role in fall risk management.

The Stark Reality of Falls Among Older Adults

The ramifications of falls are alarmingly severe, especially for our elderly population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) details the grim statistics, emphasizing that falls lead to more than 800,000 hospitalizations and over 27,000 fatalities every year in the United States.

With such dire consequences, understanding the factors that contribute to fall risks becomes vital.

Unraveling the Connection

Sakumura and Gans’s study, encompassing a sample of 599 adults aged 18 to 89, sought to discern the relationship between fall risks and three key factors: cognitive function, vestibular function, and auditory function. The insights are compelling:

  • “Hearing loss is recognized as the number one modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline. Furthermore, patients with even mild cognitive impairment in domains of; visuo-spatial processing, executive function, memory recall, and reaction times are 14 times more likely to have degraded postural stability and elevated fall risk”
  • Drawing from previous studies, they emphasize, “Risk of falling is 3 times higher in patients with hearing loss compared to those with normal hearing”

These findings underscore the intricate bond between our auditory health and overall physical stability.

The Role of Advanced Hearing Health Care

In our endeavor to provide Midland and the Permian Basin’s communities with top-tier hearing care, we consistently emphasize the significance of regular hearing evaluations and the adoption of the latest hearing technologies.

This is not just about ensuring optimal auditory function but also about taking a comprehensive approach to holistic health. Recognizing the importance of auditory function can play a crucial role in safeguarding individuals against potential fall risks.

All About Hearing—Your Partner in Comprehensive Health

If you, or someone you know, have concerns about your hearing, remember that our team at All About Hearing is always here to assist.

With a blend of expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and a commitment to our community’s well-being, we’re dedicated to ensuring that you’re not just hearing better, but living better.

Schedule your consultation today! Or, if you prefer, request a callback or reach out to us directly at (432) 689-2220.

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Brian Martin

Brian was born in San Angelo, Texas, and moved to Odessa at the age of 5. Brian, at a very early age, had a love of music and sound. At the age of 13 Brian started to play guitar. He graduated from Permian High School and after graduation went on tour playing music and to this day, still plays in the Midland-Odessa area. Brian has been married to his high school sweetheart, Amy, for 25 years and they have one son. His family means the world to him. Over the years Brian has opened up for acts like Jason Aldean, Spencer Davis Group, Denny Laine from Wings, and many other top name groups. As life slowed down the time came for Brian to take his passion for music and sound and apply it to Audiology. Brian loves helping people and his great grandmother’s deafness and his own challenges with hearing loss drove him to become a State Licensed Hearing Instrument Specialist. Brian is a member of the International Hearing Society (IHS), and the Texas Hearing Aid Association (THAA). His care for his clients and his knowledge of the industry has lead to many people being helped in their hearing journey.

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