Researchers at the University of South Carolina have upended long-held assumptions about why older adults lose their hearing. The new study found that staying physically active protects your ears far more than controlling blood pressure. For years, doctors assumed blood pressure was the key. Turns out it's not.
Why it matters
We treat hearing loss with hearing aids after the damage is done. But this research says we've been focused on the wrong thing. Physical function (not cardiovascular health) is what keeps hearing intact.
“Aging has long been associated with decreases in physical, sensory, and cognitive functions, and scientists and clinicians previously assumed that cardiovascular health was the common underlying factor in these declines. However, our research showed that systolic blood pressure – a measure of cardiovascular health that increases with age – did not appear to impact hearing loss while physical function seemed to have a protective effect in the group we studied, which was comprised mostly of educated women.” —Jean Neils-Strunjas, PhD, CCC-SLP, led the study at the University of South Carolina
Assumptions, assumptions
As you age, your body breaks down in connected ways. Blood pressure climbs. Hearing fades. Thinking gets fuzzy.
Dr. Neils-Strunjas's research doesn't agree with this. Investigators analyzed 150 adults, ages 50 to 80, using data that measured their daily activities, blood pressure, cognition, and hearing.
- Elevated blood pressure showed zero correlation with hearing loss.
- Better hearing went with better physical function.
"Systolic blood pressure does not appear to be a meaningful predictor of hearing loss or cognitive performance in healthy older adults." —Dr. Neils-Strunjas
Key findings
The takeaway
To preserve your hearing, move more. Walk. Climb stairs. Garden. Do everyday physical activities, which is something we should all do for many reasons.
This research isn't suggesting you stop paying attention to or treating your blood pressure. The study is about a better understanding of what preserves hearing.
Protect and preserve your hearing
Hearing loss doesn't mean losing your balance, social world, or increasing your risk of dementia. Our free 15-minute hearing screening will help you:
- Understand your current hearing health
- Prevent communication barriers
- Stay engaged with loved ones
- Maintain your quality of life
Schedule your free screening today and rediscover the sounds that matter most.
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