A comprehensive [systematic review and meta-analysis](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/2831342?utm_campaign=articlePDF&utm_medium=articlePDFlink&utm_source=articlePDF&utm_content=jamaoto.2025.0056) published in _JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery_ has found that increased risk of falls is associated with a hearing loss and may be a potentially modifiable risk factor.
Researchers analyzed 27 studies involving more than 5 million participants to investigate the relationship between hearing loss and falls. The findings revealed that individuals with hearing loss had 51% higher odds of falls in cross-sectional studies and 17% greater risk of falls in longitudinal studies compared to those without hearing loss.
This association remained significant even after accounting for other known sensory risk factors for falls, including vision impairment, dizziness or inner ear balance problems. The study also found that age plays a significant role, with the association between auditory impairment and falls becoming stronger as age increases.
“With a rapidly aging global population, it is crucial to acknowledge the public health concerns surrounding falls and consider if hearing loss could be a potentially modifiable risk factor,” the researchers noted in their report conclusion.
The researchers discuss several possible mechanisms that might explain this connection. Individuals with diminished hearing may experience increased listening demands, potentially reducing attention resources crucial for balance control. Hearing difficulties may also restrict access to important auditory information that helps with [spatial awareness](https://www.mcknights.com/news/home-based-exercise-game-improved-frailty-factors-study/) and maintaining postural balance.
The study examined hearing function through various methods, with some studies using validated clinical assessments like pure-tone audiometry and others relying on self-reported measures. The association between impaired hearing and falls was stronger when hearing was assessed using validated clinical methods rather than self-reported questionnaires.
While the study establishes hearing loss as a potential risk factor for falls, the authors emphasize that further randomized clinical trials are needed to determine whether treating auditory deficits through interventions like hearing aids could help prevent falls.