Age-related hearing loss is a public health problem that, despite its high prevalence and significant impact on the quality of life of older people, continues to be underdetected and socially normalized. In Spain, although presbycusis affects a high percentage of the population over the age of 65, the lack of systematic hearing screenings and standardized protocols hinders early diagnosis and delays access to effective solutions.
Scientific evidence demonstrates that untreated hearing loss is associated with a greater risk of cognitive decline,depression, unwanted loneliness, and social isolation, falls and dependency, as well as a significant increase in both health care and social care expenditure. Conversely, early detection and appropriate treatment, through hearing aids/prostheses and rehabilitation interventions, generate functional, cognitive, emotional, and social benefits, in addition to being cost-effective.
This document analyzes the current state of prevention and care for older people with hearing loss, identifies structural shortcomings in the healthcare and social care system, and formulates priority action proposals from different professional disciplines.
FIAPAS is driving this analysis with the aim of promoting the implementation of systematic hearing screenings, improving coordination between levels of care, and guaranteeing the participation, accessibility, and rights of older people with hearing loss.
Reference: Corral Carrillo, O., Beraza Tamayo, N., Bermejo Boixareu, C., Lassaletta Atienza, L., Morales Escobar, F., Santos Garrido, J. and Prieto Martínez, R. (2026). Análisis del estado de la cuestión en la prevención y atención a la persona mayor con sordera desde una perspectiva interdisciplinar. Especiales FIAPAS, 186, 1 – 24.
© FIAPAS 2026
