Study Links Better Physical Function to Improved Hearing in Older Adults

Researchers at the University of South Carolina examined the relationship between physical function, hearing ability, systolic blood pressure and cognitive function in community-dwelling adults aged 50 to 80. The study involved 150 participants and used the RAND 36‑Item Health Survey to assess physical function, including questions about vigorous activity, walking more than one mile, climbing stairs and daily activities. Hearing status was measured alongside blood pressure and cognition. Results, published in the journal Scientific Reports, indicated that higher physical‑function scores were associated with better hearing. The findings suggest that maintaining physical fitness may help preserve auditory health in older adults.