Hearing loss is often seen as a normal part of getting older. But research shows that hearing loss may affect more than how well we hear. It may also be linked to brain health, memory problems and dementia.
Research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found a strong connection between hearing loss and dementia. In fact, the risk appears to increase as hearing loss becomes more severe. People with mild hearing loss are nearly twice as likely to develop dementia compared with those who have normal hearing. The risk increases to about three times higher for people with moderate hearing loss and about five times higher for those with severe hearing loss if left untreated.
Why might hearing loss be connected to dementia?
One reason may be that hearing loss makes the brain work harder. When sounds are unclear or words are missed, the brain has to work harder to figure out what someone is saying. Over time, this extra effort may take attention away from other tasks, such as remembering information and thinking clearly.
Hearing loss can also lead to less social interaction. People who have trouble hearing may avoid conversations, restaurants, family gatherings or other activities because they are difficult or frustrating. Spending less time talking with family and friends can lead to loneliness and less mental activity.
Researchers are also studying whether hearing loss may cause changes in the brain. More research is needed to fully understand exactly how hearing loss and dementia are connected.
The takeaway is not that hearing aids prevent Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Instead, research suggests that hearing loss is an important health concern that should not be ignored. Addressing hearing loss may help people stay connected, active and involved in the world around them.
Getting a hearing evaluation is the first step—but understanding the results is even more important. A hearing evaluation can show whether hearing loss is present, how much hearing has changed and which parts of the hearing range are affected. Understanding what those results mean can help you and your hearing care professional decide what steps may be right for you.
Taking care of your hearing isn’t simply about hearing better. It may also be an important part of supporting communication, social connection and healthy aging.
Source: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, “Hearing Loss and the Dementia Connection,” November 12, 2021.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements, and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media LLC (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses, or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability, or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party.
