Hearing aids are devices developed to facilitate the perception of sounds for individuals with hearing loss. However, their function is to optimally support the existing hearing capacity rather than to correct or cure the loss.

Especially in individuals with long-term hearing loss, it may take time for the brain to relearn and adapt to processing sounds with the use of a hearing aid.

Can individuals with hearing loss benefit from hearing aids over time?

Hearing aids are one of the most effective rehabilitation tools for individuals with hearing loss. However, some users may not fully experience the expected benefits, especially during the first few months of use. Nevertheless, when individuals with hearing loss use their hearing aids regularly and correctly, they achieve significant improvements in auditory perception and communication skills.

Benefits and Changes from Long-Term Hearing Aid Use

1. Improvement in Auditory Perception (Increased Ability to Understand Speech)

With the use of a hearing aid, the brain begins to be stimulated by sound again. Long-term use of the hearing aid enables the brain to relearn (neuroplasticity).

• A study by Anderson et al. (2013) showed that in individuals with age-related hearing loss, auditory stimulation through the device reorganized the speed of sound processing in the brain and improved understanding over time.
• Tye-Murray et al. (2008) reported that long-term use increased scores in word recognition and sentence comprehension. This improvement typically becomes noticeable within the first 6 to 12 months of device use.

2. Improvement in Brain Plasticity and Cognitive Functions

Hearing loss is particularly associated with cognitive decline in older adults (Lin et al., 2013). Long-term use of hearing aids may slow down cognitive decline.

• Glick & Sharma (2020) demonstrated that after at least 6 months of regular hearing aid use, there is increased activity in the auditory cortex and reduced load in the prefrontal cortex (the area associated with attention and memory).

This also shows that hearing aids positively affect not only hearing but also mental skills such as attention, memory, and processing speed.

3. Increased Social Interaction and Reduced Isolation

Individuals with hearing loss often experience social withdrawal, loneliness, and depression. Long-term use of hearing aids strengthens communication abilities, thereby increasing participation in social environments.

• Mulrow et al. (1990) found a significant decrease in depressive symptoms and improved social functioning in older adults after 4 months of hearing aid use.
• Mener et al. (2013) reported that the rate of social isolation was lower in hearing aid users compared to non-users.

4. Emotional and Psychological Improvement

Hearing loss can reduce a person’s self-esteem and confidence. With the help of hearing aids, individuals begin to feel independent again. Long-term use significantly enhances psychological well-being.

• Kochkin (2000) reported that 75% of hearing aid users felt less “lonely” and more “active” with device use.

5. Improvement in Auditory Memory and Processing Speed

Long-term use of hearing aids positively affects auditory memory capacity. As a result, individuals not only hear sounds but also remember and comprehend them better.

• The ELU (Ease of Language Understanding) Model developed by Rönnberg et al. (2013) shows that hearing aid users process words faster and respond more quickly, with a reduced cognitive load. Audiologists are versatile health professionals who not only recommend hearing aids but also diagnose hearing loss, select and fit personalized devices, manage auditory rehabilitation, provide psychosocial support, and conduct long-term follow-up. One of the most critical factors determining the effectiveness of the device is the audiologist’s expertise and ability to tailor the process to the individual; this way, the person regains not only hearing but also understanding, communication, and active participation in social life.

If you are experiencing hearing loss, book your appointment now at our İskele Hearing Center in Cyprus! Contact us for a detailed examination and a free hearing test!