Cochlear implants (CIs) in older adults are increasingly common and can be very successful in improving hearing, communication, and overall quality of life.

New York Times recently published an article titled "When a Hearing Aid Isn’t Enough" by Paula Span.

Read Article HERE

Candidacy

Older adults are considered good candidates for cochlear implants if they:

• Have moderate to profound hearing loss in both ears.

• Receive limited benefit from hearing aids.

• Are medically fit for surgery, even with age-related conditions.

Age alone is not a contraindication — outcomes depend more on factors like duration of deafness, cognitive function, and neural health than on chronological age. Read more here: Determining CI Candidacy - American Cochlear Implant Alliance

*Click here to download this infographic

Benefits

• Improved speech understanding, even in noise.

• Better communication and reduced listening effort.

• Enhanced social engagement and reduced feelings of isolation.

• Improved cognitive outcomes — some studies suggest CIs may help slow cognitive decline linked to hearing loss.

• Read about adult rehabilitation here: ACI Alliance Cochlear Implant Information | Adult Rehabilitation

Considerations and Challenges

• Surgical risk: Generally low, but older adults may have a slightly higher rate of anesthesia-related complications.

• Rehabilitation: Requires consistent participation in listening therapy; motivation and family support are important.

• Cognitive function: Mild cognitive impairment doesn’t rule out implantation but can affect outcomes.

• Comorbidities: Conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease are usually manageable with medical clearance.

• Read about the surgery process here: Cochlear Implant Surgery - American Cochlear Implant Alliance

Outcomes

Research shows that adults implanted in their 70s, 80s, or even 90s can achieve:

• Meaningful improvements in hearing and speech perception.

• Comparable satisfaction rates to younger recipients.

• Continued benefit over many years post-implantation.

• Read an adult blog here: ADULT COCHLEAR IMPLANT REHABILITATION - American Cochlear Implant Alliance

Key Takeaway

Cochlear implantation is a safe and effective option for older adults with significant hearing loss. With appropriate evaluation, support, and rehabilitation, it can lead to major gains in communication ability, independence, and quality of life. Read our clinical guidelines here: Cochlear Implant Support and Clinical Guidance - American Cochlear Implant Alliance