Hearing

Hearing

Research suggests that hearing loss can significantly increase the risk for cognitive decline and dementia. It is unclear the underlying reason for the connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, but some explanations include: 

• Prolonged lack of hearing sounds can result in a reduction in brain volume.
• Increased strain on the brain to understand speech taxes cognitive resources such as attention and memory.
• Increased social withdrawal leads to reduced engagement in life and cognitive stimulation, which may lead to decreased enjoyment of social and pleasant activities.

Hearing loss becomes increasingly common as we age. Early hearing intervention can slow down loss of thinking and memory abilities by 48% (www.achievestudy.org).

If you are concerned about hearing loss: 

• Discuss your concerns with your primary care provider.
• Get a hearing test from an audiologist and have follow-up appointments every year.
• Follow the recommendations of a professional. Hearing tests are generally conducted by audiologists who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing hearing and balance disorders.

Devices used to help manage hearing loss include: 

• Assistive Listening Devices
• Telephone Devices
• Hearing aids and Cochlear Implants

For more information on hearing loss, see the booklet “Age Related Hearing Loss” from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/age-related-hearing-loss).

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