Dr Hannah Glick, Wednesday 2 April keynote speaker at the AudA 2025 Conference.
Emerging research on the link between hearing loss and dementia will take centre stage this April when Dr Hannah Glick from the US presents on the topic at the Audiology Australia (AudA) 2025 Conference in Adelaide.
The exact association between hearing loss and dementia is currently unknown, but emerging research is beginning to indicate a possible connection between someone’s reduced cognitive stimulation from hearing loss and increased levels of cognitive decline and dementia risk.
As a dually trained audiologist and cognitive neuroscientist, Dr Glick is bringing a fresh perspective to this research. Working in Colorado, US as the President of the Colorado Academy of Audiology and an assistant professor at the University of Northern Colorado, her findings on the impact of hearing loss and treatment on cognitive function and overall wellbeing have been published internationally in numerous scientific journals and book chapters, to assist this vulnerable population.
In anticipation of her keynote speech at the AudA 2025 Conference, AudA sat down with Dr Glick to learn more about her area of research, what drew her to the conference and what attendees will learn from her presentation.
Audiology Australia: Hi Hannah, can you give us an overview of your area of specialty?
Dr Hannah Glick: I research how hearing loss and hearing treatment impact cognitive function and overall wellbeing in adults. Specifically, I focus on adults who are at high risk of developing dementia, exploring how interventions like hearing aids or other rehabilitative therapies might support their cognitive health and other aspects of their wellbeing.
How is your work making a positive difference to the lives of audiology clients?
My work is advancing our understanding of how hearing loss and its treatment impact overall wellbeing, with a particular focus on high-risk groups, such as adults at risk for dementia. By examining how hearing interventions affect cognitive health, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life, my research aims to improve outcomes for these vulnerable populations. This work not only enhances individual care but also has broader public health implications, helping to inform strategies for preventing cognitive decline and promoting healthier aging at a population level.
What drew you to the AudA 2025 Conference?
I was invited to speak at the AudA 2025 Conference, and I’m excited for the opportunity to connect with the audiology community in Australia. As a US citizen, I’m eager to learn about the unique approaches to audiology in Australia and explore how we can collaborate to improve hearing care and outcomes on both sides of the world.
What do you want attendees to leave your session with?
I want attendees to leave my session with a deeper understanding of the crucial role hearing treatment plays in adults at high risk for dementia, especially those with mild cognitive impairment. It’s also vital that they learn how to approach conversations about hearing and cognitive health with sensitivity, as these discussions can often be stigmatising and difficult for both patients and their families. Finally, I hope to highlight the importance of a holistic health approach, where audiological care is integrated into broader strategies to enhance communication and overall quality of life.
What do you love about your career?
I love the opportunity to walk alongside patients with hearing loss and their families, helping them navigate their journey with empathy and care. Conducting meaningful research that directly impacts clinical practice is incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Equally fulfilling is mentoring the next generation of clinicians and scientists, fostering their passion and helping them shape the future of audiology.
If you had chosen another career path, what would you be doing right now and why?
If I had chosen a different career path, I could see myself as a social entrepreneur, addressing issues like aging in place, healthcare access, and education by finding innovative solutions. Alternatively, I could see myself coaching and writing, helping people unlock their full potential and live more intentional, meaningful lives. I might also pursue palliative care, supporting patients and families through life’s most difficult moments. Ultimately, these paths—along with my chosen career path in audiology—share a common goal: helping people live better, more fulfilling lives, especially during life’s most challenging transitions.
Last chance to benefit from early bird prices! Register by 17 February to save over 15% on registration fees for the AudA 2025 Conference!
The Audiology Australia 2025 Conference is your opportunity to hear directly from Dr Glick and other leaders and innovative thinkers in the audiology sector and beyond.
Don’t forget! If you’re an Audiology Australia member and register before Monday 17 February 2025, you’ll have the chance to save $235 on full conference registration.