Research links untreated hearing loss to a significantly higher risk of dementia – but the message is still not getting through
People with hearing loss are being urged to take early action after new evidence reinforced the link between untreated hearing loss and an increased risk of dementia.
According to Professor Dr Talip Asil, a neurology specialist at Biruni University Medical Faculty Hospital in Istanbul, severe hearing impairment can increase the risk of dementia fivefold. Even mild hearing loss, he said, can double the risk.
The brain cortex literally shrinks through lack of use
Citing studies from Johns Hopkins University, Dr Asil said: “Mild hearing loss doubles the risk of dementia, moderate hearing loss triples the risk, and individuals with severe hearing loss have a five times higher likelihood of developing dementia.”
He explained that when people struggle to follow conversations, they are forced to use more cognitive effort. Over time, this added strain can weaken other brain functions and contribute to cognitive decline.
In addition, the brain’s auditory cortex – which processes sound – can shrink through lack of use. That, in turn, affects memory, attention and the ability to learn.
The compounding impact of social isolation
Dr Asil also warned that hearing loss often leads to social withdrawal, which further increases the risk of cognitive decline. People who find it difficult to follow conversations in group settings may start to avoid them, compounding the mental effects.
“It is crucial for individuals aged 40 and over to undergo regular hearing tests as a simple but vital precaution,” he said.
Why hearing aids make a difference
Dr Asil emphasised the importance of hearing aids not just for hearing but for preserving brain function and maintaining social connection. He also recommended healthy habits such as exercise, brain training and good nutrition to support both hearing and cognitive health.
“By protecting our hearing health, we also protect our brain,” he said. “Taking early precautionary measures makes a significant difference in preventing cognitive issues that can arise in old age.”
The real reasons people delay – and why they shouldn’t
Despite growing awareness of the risks, many people with hearing loss still avoid using hearing aids – often for reasons that have little to do with health.
“At Hearology®, we often find that people worry more about how hearing aids will make them look, rather than the positive impact they will have on isolation, cognitive ability and overall brain health,” said Clarissa Purdy, a Clinical Audiologist at the independent hearing and ear care specialist.
“We don’t preach and obviously we believe in the power and strength of the service we are proud to provide at Hearology®, but if someone with hearing loss decides not to go ahead and get hearing aids from us, we will strongly encourage them to get them from somewhere else, as wearing hearing aids, regardless of where you get them from, is so much better than not taking any action at all to address hearing loss.”
References
- Hearing Loss Further Linked to Risk of Dementia - Supports the link between hearing loss and an increased risk of dementia, highlighting that severe hearing loss can increase dementia risk by up to 20%. It also discusses the potential benefits of using hearing aids in reducing this risk.
- The Link Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline - Explains the connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, noting that hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor for dementia. It also discusses how treating hearing loss could prevent up to 7% of dementia cases globally.
