THE RELATIONSHIP OF PRESBYCUSIS WITH COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS

Introduction: Presbycusis, age-related hearing loss, is one of the most common diseases in geriatric patients. The present study aims to achieve early diagnosis of presbycusis, prevent cognitive disorders, avoid social isolation, and provide guidance for the treatment. Materials and Method: Presbycusis was diagnosed by routine biochemical, hormone, and audiological tests in patients aged >= 50 years with hearing loss who were admitted to the ear-nose-throat outpatient clinic. Cognitive impairment was examined by a neurologist; all patients received the Mini-Mental State Examination and Clock Drawing Test. Patients with dementia caused by metabolic and toxic disorders, and patients with depression who scored >10 on Beck's depression scale were excluded from the study. Results: This prospective study was conducted between February 2016 and June 2017. A total of 73 patients were included in the study; the mean +/- SD age was 71.44 +/- 8.12 (min-max: 48-88) years; 42.5% (n = 31) were men and 57.5% (n = 42) women. Following age correction, the Mini-Mental State Examination score of patients with hearing loss was lower than those without (Corrected Z = 2.229; p = 0.026). The Clock Drawing Test score was lower in patients with hearing loss than those without (Corrected Z = 3.302; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study revealed that presbycusis is neglected but significant cause of dementia and leads to its rapid development. Close and regular monitoring of hearing loss in geriatric patients and enhancement of social awareness on this issue are important factors for preventing dementia.