Hearing loss and dementia: Are they linked?

Hearing loss and dementia are both considerable concerns for the ageing population across the UK and globally, but is there a connection between them? We know hearing loss does not directly cause dementia, the goal of this blog post is to explore the relationship between hearing loss and dementia, as well as discussing preventative measures.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a term that refers to the decline in cognitive functions like memory, thinking, language, and problem-solving. It can also affect mood and behaviour.  There are a few different forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body, vascular, and frontotemporal.
There are various symptoms, although the main ones include:

• Short-term memory
• Reduced concentration
• Increased confusion
• Failure to do everyday chores
• Behavioural changes

The symptoms of dementia are progressive, meaning that cognitive impairment gets worse over time. Dementia is an extremely sensitive topic and if you recognise these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, don’t neglect them – speak to a professional.

How is dementia linked to hearing loss?

​Hearing loss and dementia often occur together in older individuals, but what’s the connection?
Individuals with hearing loss are at greater risk of acquiring dementia. Furthermore, some studies claim that hearing loss is an independent risk factor for dementia, accounting for 9% of cases.
One argument is that hearing loss results in someone being less socially engaged. As social time is critical to being intellectually stimulated, isolation and loneliness could lead your brain to be less active on a frequent basis.
Another way that hearing affects dementia is the way it depends on your brain to work harder. Indeed, the brain’s effort to compensate for hearing loss could divert resources away from cognitive functions. In turn, this could quicken cognitive deterioration. Learn how hearing loss affects everyday life.

​How can hearing aids help with dementia?

According to a study on hearing loss and dementia, hearing aids could slow cognitive decline in people of higher risk, such as individuals with dementia. By reducing the impact of hearing loss and keeping auditory pathways active, hearing aids can enhance hearing clarity and help people reengage with their surroundings. By being able to maintain social connections, individuals can continue stimulating their brains whilst avoiding isolation and depression, common challenges for people with untreated hearing loss.

​Early prevention advice for hearing loss and dementia

Early prevention measures can be critical in addressing hearing loss and its possible impacts on dementia. Let’s take a look at some simple actions you could carry out.

Regular hearing check-ups
Frequent hearing check-ups in older adults can help professionals detect hearing loss early on. Thus, by using hearing aids early on, individuals may be able to maintain cognitive function and enhance their overall well-being. Book a hearing test or full diagnostics with us online here.

Stay socially engaged
By making sure you stay socially active, you can keep yourself intellectually stimulated and ward off the potential challenges tied to isolation and loneliness.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating healthily, exercising regularly, and participating in mental and physical exercises can help support brain health, which is crucial to delay the weakening of cognitive functions.

Current research supports a case for audiologists providing cognitive screenings to meet the needs of certain patients. Find out more here.

Hearing aids help to slow the brain aging process

A recent study published by medicalexpress.com found that hearing aids helped slow the brain again process in adults with mild cognitive impairment! Read the study here. 

"The use of hearing aids can help to slow the metabolic decline that takes place in the brains of adults with mild cognitive impairment"

British Society of Audiology Information

There’s a growing public perception that hearing loss directly causes dementia, a message often amplified by media and some healthcare professionals. However, according to a joint position statement from the British Society of Audiology, the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists, this claim is not backed by scientific evidence. While hearing loss and dementia both increase with age and often co-occur, current research does not support a causal relationship. In fact, the suggestion that treating hearing loss can prevent dementia may inadvertently cause confusion, anxiety, and stigma, potentially deterring people from seeking the hearing care they need.

Instead of focusing on a causal link, the emphasis should be on how managing hearing loss can enhance quality of life. Hearing aids, for example, improve communication, reduce listening effort, and help users stay socially and cognitively active, all factors that contribute to healthy ageing.To explore the full position statement and recommendations, visit: The Link Between Adult-Onset Hearing Loss and Dementia – BAA

​Our round-up on dementia and hearing loss

So, there you have it! By understanding the connection between hearing loss and dementia, you can take proactive steps to manage your hearing health, boost your quality of life, and potentially delay the onset of cognitive decline.
If you have any questions about the link between dementia and hearing loss, please feel free to contact us or check out our blog for more information. click the button below if you would like more information on out 3 hearing test types, exactly what is included in each test. and pricing information.

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