Hearing Loss and Dementia: What’s the Connection?

When we think about memory loss, we often picture forgetting names or getting lost on a familiar route. But what if one of the most overlooked risks for dementia isn’t in the brain — but in the ears?

Emerging research suggests that hearing loss may be one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, treating hearing loss might help delay or slow cognitive decline.

🔗 How Are Hearing and Memory Connected?

Hearing is more than just sound. It’s a gateway to connection, language, and social engagement — all of which play a role in keeping our brains active and healthy.

Here’s how hearing loss may impact brain health:

1. Cognitive Load:
   When the brain works harder to decode sounds, it uses resources normally reserved for memory and thinking. This constant “strain” can wear down cognitive reserves over time.

2. Social Isolation:
   Hearing loss often leads to withdrawal from conversations and activities — a key contributor to loneliness and reduced brain stimulation.

3. Brain Structure Changes:
   Studies using MRI imaging have shown that older adults with untreated hearing loss have faster rates of brain atrophy, especially in areas related to memory and speech.

📚 What the Research Says

• A 2011 study from Johns Hopkins found that individuals with moderate hearing loss were three times more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing
  ➤ Lin et al., Archives of Neurology

• A 2020 Lancet Commission report identified hearing loss as the largest modifiable risk factor for dementia, estimating that addressing it could reduce dementia cases by up to 8% worldwide
  ➤ Livingston et al., Lancet, 2020

• More recently, a 2023 study published in JAMA Neurology showed that older adults with hearing loss who wore hearing aids had significantly lower rates of cognitive decline
  ➤ Deal et al., JAMA Neurology, 2023

What Does This Mean for Caregivers?

If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or early signs of memory decline, checking their hearing should be part of the conversation.

What you can do:

• Encourage a hearing test, especially if your loved one often asks people to repeat themselves, turns the TV volume up high, or withdraws from conversations.
• Consider hearing aids or other assistive devices — newer models are discreet, effective, and easier to use than ever.
• Ensure good lighting during conversations for speech reading and facial cues.
• Reduce background noise (e.g., TV or fans) when talking to someone with hearing difficulties.

Prevention Starts with Awareness

Hearing loss is common as we age — but it’s not inevitable, and it’s not harmless. By taking hearing health seriously, we may also help protect the memory, independence, and quality of life of those we love.

This Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, let’s remember: Supporting hearing health is also supporting brain health.