Is there a link between hearing loss and fall risk in older adults? Well according to a study published in JAMA Network, yes there may be! The study found that hearing loss may be a risk factor for falls and that it could be a modifiable risk factor (although inconclusive). Hearing loss is a prevalent condition associated with aging and is a major health concern. Researchers analyzed 27 studies involving more than 5 million people and the findings revealed that those with hearing loss had a higher risk for falls than those without hearing loss.

McKnight’s Long-Term Care News also covered the study about hearing loss and fall risk in older adults, noting that hearing loss may raise the risk of falling by 51%.

While this study establishes hearing loss as a potential risk factor for falls, the researchers recommend further randomized clinical trials. The big question raised through this research is could interventions such as hearing aids decrease fall risk in those with hearing loss? It is important to remember that falls are also associated with inner ear problems, poor safety awareness, poor vision, etc. but maybe hearing loss is a contributing factor!

When a resident experiences a fall and your team initiates root cause analysis, are they evaluating the resident’s ability to hear? Are you bringing an audiologist into your center to evaluate your residents? When was the last time your residents hearing aids we cleaned/”tuned up”? Maybe it is time to initiate a PIP through your QAPI committee focusing on hearing! Contact a local hearing specialist and you may be surprised how many are willing to come to your center! Stay well and stay informed!