The Research
A 2020 report from The Lancet Commission identified hearing loss as the single largest risk factor for dementia, estimating that it accounts for 8% of cases worldwide.
In 2014, researcher Frank Lin and his colleagues used MRI scans to analyze the brains of older individuals with and without hearing loss. He found a significant decrease in brain volume, especially in the right temporal lobe in those with hearing loss.
In 2013, Frank Lin also found that older adults with untreated hearing loss had a 24% increased risk of cognitive decline compared to those with normal hearing. Additionally, individuals with severe hearing loss were found to be 500% more likely to develop dementia compared to those with normal hearing.
Why is There a Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia?
This relationship is not yet fully understood but it is likely a combination of factors, with the main ones being as follows:
Decreased neural stimulation - Use It or Lose It! If the cells in your ears are not able to pick up the sounds around you, they cannot transmit that information to the auditory nerve or the brain. Since these pathways are not being used, the body will start to recycle them. This leads to brain atrophy (withering away of the brain).
Increased Cognitive Load: When individuals struggle to hear, their brain must work harder to process sounds, diverting resources from memory and other cognitive functions.
Decreased Social Interactions: We have all been in a situation where we cannot easily hear the people around us. Difficulty in communication often leads to withdrawal from social interactions, a known risk factor for dementia.
The Role of Hearing Aids
The good news is that treating hearing loss with hearing aids may help slow cognitive decline. A 2023 study in The Lancet Healthy Longevity found that individuals at high risk of dementia who used hearing aids had a 48% lower risk of cognitive decline compared to those who did not.
Conclusion
Hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process. However, this does not mean you or your family should just accept it. Having hearing that is “typical for your age” does not mean that it is normal. Hearing loss should always be treated as soon as possible to offset any emotional, social, and physical decline. And now after reading this article, you can appreciate that treating hearing loss can significantly offset cognitive decline as well. Regular hearing screenings and early intervention with hearing aids or other assistive devices can play a crucial role in preserving brain health. If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing difficulties, seeking professional help could be a step toward protecting long-term cognitive function.
