< Program

Technology Update Session

Session 1C
Cognition and Hearing Loss:  Enhancing the Conversation with Phonak
Shannon M. Basham, AuD, Phonak

As we age, concerns about cognitive decline and dementia risk in older adults become increasingly pertinent. Untreated hearing loss has been associated with a greater risk of dementia and other health concerns. Preliminary evidence exists showing that, for patients who will experience cognitive decline, hearing aids are protective. Hearing healthcare providers should be encouraged to integrate cognitive health into audiological counseling with their patients, ultimately, strengthening the patient's understanding of the benefits of hearing technology beyond just hearing better.  Phonak has invested in moving this important conversation forward and has developed a hearing loss and cognition initiative that includes provider education and training, as well as in-clinic success tools. The ECHHO (Enhancing Cognitive Health via Hearing Optimization) training program will help providers understand the foundations of cognition and hearing loss, the mechanisms behind associations, how to proactively address hearing loss and promote healthy living as a way to mitigate cognitive decline, and how hearing well can positively impact overall well-being.

Shannon Basham is the Sr. Director of Audiology and Education for the Sonova Wholesale Hearing Instrument business. An audiologist herself, she brings years of experience to her current role where she is dedicated to educating and inspiring other hearing healthcare professionals to provide life changing solutions that meet the individualized needs of patients with hearing loss. Curious by nature, she seeks out all things that lead to improve the human experience and overall well-being. Although rarely home, she, her husband Mike, and their son John Michael call the Atlanta area home.