Hearing Loss & Dementia
Dementia & Hearing Loss: Understanding the Connection
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Research increasingly supports the connection between hearing loss and a heightened risk of dementia. If you’re concerned about protecting yourself or a loved one, keep reading to discover more about this important link and how early intervention can make a difference.
The Link Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Hearing Loss
Significant studies have uncovered a link between hearing loss and an increased likelihood of developing dementia. One notable 12-year study conducted by Johns Hopkins researchers found:
- Mild hearing loss can double the risk of dementia.
- Moderate hearing loss triples the risk.
- Severe hearing loss increases the risk of developing dementia by five times.
While the exact relationship is still under investigation, two key factors are believed to play a role: brain atrophy and brain overload.
Hearing Loss & Brain Atrophy
When the brain's hearing centers are no longer regularly stimulated by everyday sounds, they can become less active. This lack of stimulation can lead to brain atrophy—similar to how muscles weaken when they’re not exercised. These structural and functional changes in the brain may contribute to cognitive decline over time.
Hearing Loss & Brain Overload
Another connection between hearing loss and dementia is the concept of brain overload. When hearing becomes difficult, the brain must exert extra effort just to interpret sounds, understand speech, and identify where noises are coming from. This constant strain can drain the mental resources needed for crucial cognitive functions like memory and problem-solving, potentially accelerating cognitive decline.
Is It Hearing Loss or Dementia?
While hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia, it’s also important to avoid misdiagnosing the condition. If you suspect dementia in yourself or someone else, it’s crucial to seek a professional medical evaluation.
Symptoms of undiagnosed hearing loss that are sometimes mistaken for dementia include:
- Difficulty remembering recent conversations.
- Misunderstanding stories or explanations.
- Appearing confused by simple verbal instructions.
Hearing impairments can make it challenging to engage in conversations, respond accurately, and follow verbal cues, which can lead to confusion, isolation, and even paranoia. To prevent these issues, it’s essential to have your hearing evaluated by a professional.
How Can Hearing Aids Help?
While there is no cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s, hearing aids have been shown to slow the rate of cognitive decline and enhance the quality of life for those with both hearing loss and dementia.² By improving hearing, these devices can also reduce feelings of loneliness and depression that may arise later in life.
Today’s hearing aids come in various styles to fit different lifestyles, ages, and degrees of hearing loss. Click the link below to schedule a free appointment with a Beltone Coastal hearing care professional and take the first step toward better hearing.