Practices and perceptions of cognitive assessment for adults with age-related hearing loss

To investigate the landscape of cognitive impairment (CI) screening for adults with age-related hearing loss (ARHL) among otolaryngologists and audiologists. To identify provider factors and patient characteristics that impact rates of CI screening and referral.

A 15 question online survey was sent to members of the Georgia Society of Otolaryngology (GSO), Georgia Academy of Audiology (GAA), American Otological Society and American Neurotology Society (AOS/ANS), and posted on the web forum for two hearing disorders special interest groups within the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Responses were collected anonymously. Chi-square tests were used to compare responses.

Of the 66 included respondents, 61% (n = 40) were otolaryngologists and 35% (n = 23) were audiologists. Respondents were significantly more likely to refer patients for CI assessment than to screen (64% vs 21%, respectively, P < .001). The complaint of a neurological symptom, such as memory loss, would prompt screening or referral for only 27.3% (n = 18) and 51.52% (n = 34) of respondents, respectively. Forty-two percent (n = 28) of respondents suggested CI screening with the MMSE vs 20% (n = 13) with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment.

Despite recommendations for cognitive assessment in high-risk populations, such as older adults with ARHL, the practice of CI screening and referral is not yet commonplace among otolaryngologists and audiologists. These providers have a unique opportunity to assess adults with ARHL for CI and ensure appropriate referral.

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