Auditory-Cognitive Optimization Care Program for Older Adults With Hearing Loss and Cognitive Impairment

Hearing loss and cognitive impairment are common and interrelated health problems that may affect communication, information processing, attention, psychological well-being, daily functioning, and quality of life. This study aims to develop and evaluate a comorbidity-oriented Auditory-Cognitive Optimization Care Program (A-COP) for individuals with hearing loss and cognitive impairment. The A-COP will be developed based on evidence from a literature review and findings from qualitative research involving individuals with hearing loss and cognitive impairment and their caregivers. The program integrates hearing-related care and cognitive stimulation strategies to address the combined needs associated with hearing and cognitive difficulties. In the intervention phase, participants will be randomly assigned to either the A-COP intervention group or an active control group in a two-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial. The study will evaluate changes in cognitive function, hearing and communication-related outcomes, depressive symptoms, and quality of life from baseline through the 6-month follow-up. The findings will provide evidence regarding the effects of the A-COP in individuals with hearing loss and cognitive impairment.