Did you know untreated hearing loss may increase your risk of dementia?

When we think about protecting our brain health as we age, we often focus on diet, exercise, and mental stimulation. But there’s one critical area many people overlook — hearing health.

Emerging research is drawing a strong connection between untreated hearing loss and the development of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, hearing loss is now considered one of the most modifiable risk factors for dementia.

What Does the Research Say?

Studies have shown that people with untreated hearing loss are significantly more likely to experience cognitive decline. According to a meta-analysis by neuroscientist Dr. Timothy Griffiths, hearing loss may account for up to 9% of dementia cases worldwide. Another review concluded that hearing loss could increase the risk of dementia in adults, especially when left unaddressed for years.

Dr. Frank Lin, a leading researcher in this field, found that older adults with hearing loss experienced accelerated shrinkage in areas of the brain associated with memory and speech processing — areas also affected in Alzheimer’s patients.

How Can Hearing Loss Contribute to Dementia?

Experts believe the connection lies in a few key factors:

1. Cognitive Load: When your brain works harder to decode sounds and speech, it has fewer resources for memory and thinking tasks.

2. Social Isolation: Hearing loss often leads to withdrawal from conversations and social situations, which can reduce brain stimulation and lead to mental stagnation.

3. Physical Brain Changes: Studies using MRI scans have shown that untreated hearing loss leads to a faster rate of brain atrophy in key cognitive regions.

These combined effects can lead to a greater risk of cognitive decline over time.

The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

On average, people wait seven years from the time they notice hearing difficulties to when they seek help. Unfortunately, by that point, some of the cognitive impact may already be taking place.

The good news?Early diagnosis and treatment with hearing aids can help slow down this decline. Hearing aids not only improve communication — they help maintain brain function by restoring natural auditory stimulation.

What Can You Do?

If you or a loved one has noticed signs of hearing loss — difficulty following conversations, turning up the TV, or frequently asking people to repeat themselves — don’t wait.