Interaction of auditory and vestibular functions and their relation to age and cognition

Overview

The auditory and vestibular systems play a crucial role not only in sensory processing but also in cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and spatial orientation. Aging is associated with a gradual decline in the function of both systems, which can significantly contribute to the development of cognitive impairment and dementia. A relatively recent finding is the correlation between structural damage of the default mode network and neurocognitive deficits, which may serve as an early biomarker of dementia. The relationship between vestibulopathy and cognition is supported by significantly poorer patient performance in tests of short-term memory and spatial orientation, with the severity of balance disorders correlating with the degree of cognitive decline. Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) represents the most important modifiable risk factor for dementia. The aim of this paper is to summarize current knowledge on this relationship and to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis of sensory deficits for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

Keywords:

dementia – Hippocampus – presbycusis – hearing – cognitive dysfunction – vestibular nuclei