Digging deeper: factors that modify and/or mediate sensory-cognitive associations in the CLSA

Project Summary

Cognitive decline (which is a normal part of aging) and dementia (which is an age-related syndrome) are responsible for much of the discomfort, disability and healthcare use in older adults. Cognitive decline and dementia might be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors. Hearing loss is common and is strongly associated with cognitive decline and dementia. A recent trial indicated that treating hearing loss (using hearing aids and counselling) improved long-term cognition for participants who appeared to be at higher risk of cognitive decline (because they had lower cognition, socioeconomic status, and cardiometabolic health at the beginning of the study). Although the trial hinted that certain socio-demographic and health conditions might influence the effect of hearing loss on cognition, it is still unclear what factors might impart resilience and vulnerability. Our study aims to identify such factors.