How Hearing Loss Can Increase Your Risk of Dementia
Hearing Loss and Dementia: Why Protecting Your Hearing Matters
Many people think of hearing loss as just an inconvenience, but research suggests it may also play an important role in brain health. In fact, untreated hearing loss is one of the largest potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia.
When hearing becomes more difficult, the brain has to work harder to process sounds, leaving fewer mental resources for memory and thinking. Hearing loss can also lead to reduced social interaction, loneliness, and decreased participation in activities—all of which are associated with cognitive decline.
The encouraging news is that hearing loss is treatable. Studies have shown that using appropriately fitted hearing aids can help slow cognitive decline in older adults who are at increased risk for dementia. While hearing aids are not a cure for dementia, addressing hearing loss may be an important step in maintaining overall brain health.
If you or a loved one have noticed difficulty hearing conversations, frequently ask people to repeat themselves, or turn the television up louder than others prefer, consider scheduling a hearing evaluation. Taking care of your hearing is another way to invest in your long-term health and independence.
References
Livingston G, Huntley J, Sommerlad A, et al. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet Standing Commission. The Lancet. 2024;404:572–628.
Lin FR, Yaffe K, Xia J, et al. Hearing intervention versus health education control to reduce cognitive decline in older adults (ACHIEVE): a randomized trial. The Lancet. 2023;402(10404):786–797.
Livingston G, Huntley J, Sommerlad A, et al. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. The Lancet. 2020;396(10248):413–446.
