Title: What Explains the Link Between Hearing and Vision Impairment and Cognitive Function? Analysis of Mediating Effects in the US, England, and Ireland
Stream: Lifespan Health Promotion
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Authors:
Asri Maharani, Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Katey Matthews, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Piers Dawes, University of Queensland, Australia
Rebecca Elliot, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Neil Pendleton, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Gindo Tampubolon, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Abstract:
Although adult-onset hearing and visual impairments have been found to be associated with cognitive decline, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unclear. This study aims to identify whether this association is mediated by physiological factors (indexed by allostatic load) or psychological and behavioural factors (including social engagement, depression and physical activity). The study samples were drawn from representative cross-sectional data from the USA (Health and Retirement Study Wave 11), England (English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Wave 6) and Ireland (The Irish Longitudinal Study of Ageing Wave 1). Cognitive function by one key cognitive domain available in all three surveys, namely episodic memory score. Sensory impairment was measured using self-reported hearing and vision quality. Structural equation modelling was performed to test whether the relationship pathways between hearing and vision and episodic memory were mediated by allostatic load, social engagement, depression and physical activity. We found that poor hearing and vision are associated with poorer episodic memory among adults aged 50 in the US, England, and Ireland. This relationship is mediated by the allostatic load as well as social engagement, depression, and physical activity. Healthy lifestyle interventions may reduce allostatic load, potentially reducing the risk of both sensory and cognitive impairments. Interventions to remedy hearing and vision loss, foster social engagement, reduce depression and promote physical activity may further lower the risk of cognitive decline in later life.
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