Work

The validity of visual and hearing impairment in predicting dementia and cognitive impairment in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Objective: The number of people with dementia and cognitive impairment is rising every year as the older population grows. The higher prevalence and mortality rates of dementia and cognitive impairment place an enormous burden on healthcare and economic systems worldwide. Studies have shown that older adults with sensory impairments are at a higher risk of developing dementia and cognitive impairment than normal older adults. There is a lack of systematic reviews on the relationship between sensory impairment and dementia and cognitive impairment in older persons. This meta-analysis aimed to analyze the correlation of visual impairment, hearing impairment, and dual sensory impairment with dementia and cognitive impairment, and to provide guidance for reducing the incidence of dementia and cognitive impairment in older adults. Methods: Computerized searches were conducted using the CNKI, Wanfang, Vip, Sinomed, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. Supplementary searches were performed on 2 clinical trial registries. Results: . The results of the studies indicated that dual sensory impairment was associated with dementia [OR 95% CI 1.66 (1.47, 1.86)], visual impairment was associated with dementia [OR 95% CI 1.60 (1.48, 1.74)], hearing impairment was associated with dementia [OR 95% CI 1.26 (1.22, 1.31)], dual sensory impairment was associated with cognitive impairment [OR 95% CI 2.08 (1.70, 2.54)], visual impairment was associated with cognitive impairment [OR 95% CI 1.84 (1.44, 2.36)], and hearing impairment was associated with cognitive impairment in old age [OR 95% CI 1.50 (1.36, 1.65)]. Conclusion: Sensory impairment is a predictor of dementia and cognitive impairment. Healthcare professionals should prioritize screening older adults with sensory impairments to reduce the incidence of dementia and cognitive impairment. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024606342.

Source: Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience

DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2025.1656686

Authors: Qingwen Gan, Yiling Yuan, Qianqian Hu, Yonghui Zhang

Institution: Nanchang University

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801