The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline

When we notice hearing loss and cognitive decline in our loved ones or ourselves, it’s common to assume that they are unrelated consequences of aging. However, when someone has hearing loss, it can increase the likelihood of cognitive impairment.

This powerful connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline is surprising for most of us. But hearing loss is more likely than diabetes, inactivity, and smoking to cause cognitive decline. Read on to find out how the two are related, how to protect your hearing, and how to prevent cognitive decline.

How is Hearing Loss Related to Cognitive Decline?

At first glance, hearing loss doesn’t seem to be related to cognitive decline. So, you might be surprised to learn that hearing loss has recently been identified as the leading modifiable risk factor for dementia. One study found mild hearing loss doubled dementia risk, while moderate loss tripled the risk. Those with severe hearing loss were five times morelikely to develop dementia.

Why does this happen? For one thing, hearing loss contributes to atrophy and shrinkage in parts of the brain that aren’t being used – such as the part of the brain that processes language. However, the effect isn’t limited to only that part of the brain – it can also cause other brain processes to suffer.

Another reason that hearing loss affects cognitive function is that it takes the person a lot more effort and brain power to complete tasks and get through a typical day. This is because their brain has to work overtime to process sound and to compensate for what it can’t hear. This leads to fatigue, which becomes chronic if hearing loss goes untreated.

Additionally, people with difficulty hearing can experience social isolation and have trouble communicating with others. Social isolation can lead to cognitive decline, so it stands to reason that it would magnify the risk in those with hearing loss.

How Can I Prevent Cognitive Decline if I Have Hearing Loss?

If you are not currently being treated for hearing loss, the best solution is to find an audiologist and get tested. Hearing loss is gradual, so many people don’t realize it already affects them. However, more than 30% of people ages 65 and older have some degree of hearing loss. Experts recommend having your hearing tested every three years after age 50.

If your doctor finds that you do have hearing loss, they may recommend hearing aids. These will allow you to participate in life – to listen to your family and friends and maintain your social life. You can also take steps to protect your hearing from further damage, such as wearing earplugs in loud environments. The sooner you diagnose and start treating your hearing loss, the better off you’ll be.

Can Hearing Aids Prevent Cognitive Decline?

Researchers are still studying whether hearing aids can mitigate the risk of cognitive decline. However, most current research shows that hearing aids can have a positive effect. Alzheimer’s researchers found hearing aid users were less likely to develop cognitive impairment than hearing-impaired individuals who did not use a hearing aid.

Hearing aids also allow people to communicate more easily with others, which, as we mentioned before, is crucial to maintaining good cognitive function. They also increase social activity and reduce fatigue related to hearing loss. 

If you’re ready to schedule your next audiology appointment, contact Hearing Aids of Sarasota today. You may be able to save more than your hearing – and improve your quality of life for many years to come.