THE EFFECT OF HEARING AIDS ON BRAIN CONNECTIVITY AND AUDIOVISUAL INTEGRATION IN AGE-RELATED HEARING LOSS

Goal. To determine the effect of hearing aid use on brain functional connectivity and audiovisual integration in elderly people with age-related hearing loss. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Republican Clinical Hospital in Makhachkala from January 2023 to October 2024. The study involved 19 people aged 60-85 years with mild or moderate symmetrical hearing loss. The changes were assessed through behavioral testing, including McGurk's illusion, and MRI, at the initial stage and after six months. Results. Although no significant changes in functional connectivity have been recorded, the accuracy of audiovisual and auditory tests has improved, which provides grounds for further clinical use of hearing aids in old age. Conclusions. Hearing aids can improve sensory integration and possibly cognitive function in elderly people with hearing loss, supporting their quality of life.