This study delves into the significant but often overlooked relationship between hearing impairment and physical functioning among the elderly in China. Leveraging data from two extensive population-based cohort studies, the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) and the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), we examined how hearing loss impacts the ability to perform everyday tasks and activities. This research establishes the critical link between hearing and physical health in the aging population and advocates for enhanced awareness and improved access to hearing aids as a means to support the elderly’s well-being and independence.