Dementia currently affects around 6 million people in the United States, and this number will increase as people live longer and earlier detection of dementia improves. Risk factors for dementia include hearing loss, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and more.

Hearing loss is the #1 modifiable risk factor in dementia

Hearing loss is the #1 modifiable risk factor in dementia, meaning that many people with dementia also have hearing loss.

The impact of untreated hearing loss on the brain is two-fold:

1. Prevents sounds from reaching the brain effectively. This causes the brain to expend more effort and resources to understand sounds, resulting in increased
   fatigue and quicker aging of the brain.
2. Limits a person’s ability to effectively interact and communicate with others,
   leading to isolation from conversation and social activities that keep the mind active.

 

What research has shown about hearing loss and dementia

Researchers found that untreated hearing loss leads to increased prevalence of dementia, with the likelihood of dementia increasing with the severity of hearing loss. However, treating hearing loss can slow down the negative effects of cognitive decline in at-risk individuals by alleviating the listening fatigue on the brain and keeping people active in their communities.

Bottom line: People with hearing loss have an increased risk of dementia. This does not mean that every person with hearing loss will develop dementia. Treatment of hearing loss, through hearing aids or cochlear implants, can slow cognitive decline in people at risk of dementia by addressing the fatigue and isolation resulting from untreated hearing loss. However, it is not proven that hearing aids or cochlear implants will prevent dementia.

Have you had your hearing tested recently?

It is recommended to check your hearing every 1-2 years to keep track of any changes. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with the Hearing Center of Greater Philadelphia today at (215) 383-1333.