From maintaining cognitive health to preventing heart disease, hearing health plays a huge role in our overall health, especially as we age. It also acts as a social tool, facilitating conversations and helping us form connections. But how much does hearing and the social connection it provides impact our health as we age? A new study from NYU Langone Health suggests hearing treatment can help older adults feel less isolated and lonely over time.

The research, which was part of the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) study, followed nearly 1,000 adults aged 70–84 who had untreated hearing loss. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group received hearing aids along with counseling and support from audiologists, while the other received general health education sessions on topics like chronic disease and disability prevention.

Over three years, people who received hearing treatment kept larger and more diverse social networks and reported feeling slightly less lonely than those in the health education group. On average, those with hearing aids retained one more person in their social circle and scored modestly better on loneliness scales.

While researchers note that these changes were statistically significant, it’s still unclear if they are large enough to have a meaningful impact on overall well-being. Still, the study shows that treating hearing loss can be a simple, low-risk way to help older adults maintain important social connections—an essential part of healthy aging.

We at RestorEar encourage individuals to get their hearing checked at the first sign of hearing loss and to take preventative measures throughout their lives. However, for many, a hearing aid is the best choice for their overall health. Though transitioning to a hearing aid may be scary, the benefits—both to your social and overall health—are invaluable.

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