While previous studies have shown that hearing loss affects balance, new research from Purdue University Audiology Professor Alexander Francis and his colleagues may help further explain the connection. Their study found that postural sway is more noticeable in people with hearing loss, potentially contributing to imbalance and increasing their risk of falling.1
What Is Postural Sway?
Postural sway describes the small movements your body makes around your center of gravity that help keep you balanced while standing. Having some degree of postural sway is crucial to keep you from falling over, but too much can make taking a tumble more likely.
Details About the Study
As part of his research, Francis administered hearing tests to 36 study participants, aged 62–85, and separated them into three groups—those with hearing loss, those with hearing loss who wore a hearing aid and those with no hearing loss. Each individual was instructed to stand still for one minute while researchers observed their postural sway in different listening conditions. Participants were then asked to complete a daily diary about their balance over four months.
Although the study’s final results are currently being written, Francis and his team have concluded that the group wearing hearing aids had less postural sway, were more stable and fell less frequently than those with hearing loss who didn’t wear hearing aids.
Hearing Loss and Falls
Researchers have known that hearing loss increases the likelihood of falling for a while. According to one study published in 2013, having even mild hearing loss triples an individual’s fall risk—and the risk increases by 140% for each additional 10 dB increase in hearing loss.2
If hearing loss is affecting you or your loved one’s lives in any way, including making you feel off-balance, our hearing and balance team is here for you. Call (415) 362-2901 now to make an appointment.
1 Brouk, T. (2024). New Purdue study explores correlation between postural sway, balance and hearing loss. Purdue University. https://www.purdue.edu/hhs/news/2024/09/new-purdue-study-explores-correlation-between-postural-sway-balance-and-hearing-loss/
2 Lin, F et al. (2013). Hearing loss and falls among older adults in the United States. Archives of Internal Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3518403/