Over the past several years, there has been significant research related to hearing loss and its association with numerous comorbid conditions including diabetes, heart disease, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, thyroid disease and fall risks.

While a causal relationship has not been established, it is clear that the incidence of hearing loss is much higher in these comorbid conditions. Understanding conversations is not simply a matter of volume. Cognitive function is an integral part of understanding, and hearing loss may contribute to cognitive decline. Hearing loss increases cognitive load, and it is the #1 modifiable risk factor for dementia.

Cognivue Thrive is a computerized cognitive screening device based on FDA-cleared technology. It is not an IQ test or diagnostic test for dementia or Alzheimer’s. It is an automated, non-auditory assessment that takes about 10 minutes to complete and provides information related to memory, visuospatial ability, executive function, reaction time, and processing speed.

Treating hearing loss with hearing aids may have a positive impact on cognitive decline. The Cognivue screening can be done before the fitting of hearing aids and then again 6-12 months later to help determine whether hearing aids may have delayed or slowed the advancement of cognitive decline. By offering Cognivue screenings, we hope to bring greater clarity to the discussion around the ear-brain connection and the importance of addressing hearing loss sooner.

The cost for pre and post fitting screenings is included in the purchase of private pay hearing aids. For those with 3rd party managed care or insurance hearing aid coverage, the cost is $50 per screening and is not billable to insurance.
We hope you’ll be proactive in addressing your hearing concerns, and with Cognivue screenings, we hope to provide valuable information to support your hearing care decisions.