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The Effect of Cochlear Implants on Cognitive Function in Ageing Australians

Overview

The impact of hearing loss on quality of life is significant, with several studies showing that hearing loss has adverse effects on other aspects of health. Recently, hearing loss has been associated independently with the rate of cognitive decline in adults. Given the strong relationship between hearing loss and cognitive decline, it is important to investigate whether restoring hearing can have a protective, or slowing, effect on the rate of cognitive decline.

This project, lead by Researchers at Melbourne University, seeks to determine whether cochlear implantation can delay or prevent the onset of cognitive decline. This study will compare cognitive function in healthy CI recipients to those who have normal acoustic hearing. As part of this study, information on mood, memory, attention and other cognitive functions is being collected and compared. Factors that may affect cognitive function in CI recipients, such as age, activity level, education are also being studied.

Eligibility

• 60 + years old
• No current dementia
• Clinical suitability for cochlear implantation (one or two CIs)
• Willing and able to attend the study visits.
• Able to provide informed consent for participation in the study, with an understanding of the requirements, risks and benefits of participation in the investigation.
• Able to read and fill in questionnaires.
• Good competency in English (sufficient to complete written questionnaires and read simple instructions for cognitive assessments)

Site Locations

Contact

For more Information on this study or to express interest in participating in this study, please feel free to contact researchapplications@scic.org.au or call us on 9844 6819