Here And Now
Does Hearing Loss Affect Brain Health?
World Alzheimer’s Month in September served as a global reminder to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and educate people about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. At The Ear Place, we recognize that hearing is much more than just sound, it’s how we connect, communicate, and support our cognitive health.
Even beyond the month of awareness, it’s important to remember that early detection and proactive care are essential. Your hearing health may be more closely linked to your brain health than you realise.
The overlooked connection between hearing loss and Alzheimer’s
Research has uncovered a strong connection between untreated hearing loss and a higher risk of Alzheimer's. A landmark study from Johns Hopkins University found that older adults with hearing loss were up to five times more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing.
Why? Scientists believe there are several ways hearing loss may contribute to the onset of cognitive decline:
● Cognitive load- When hearing becomes difficult, your brain must put in extra effort to interpret sounds and speech. This added strain, often called "cognitive overload", can divert mental resources away from functions like memory and critical thinking.
● Social isolation- Hearing loss often leads to withdrawal from conversations and social activities, which overtime can lead to isolation that can contribute to depression, loneliness, and cognitive decline.
● Brain structure changes- Some studies have shown that hearing loss can actually change the structure of the brain, especially in areas involved with processing speech and sound.
Early action makes a big difference
Treating hearing loss may help reduce your risk of cognitive decline. Recent studies suggest that using hearing aids or other hearing solutions can slow down the progression of dementia, especially when intervention happens early. That's why regular hearing assessments are so important, particularly for adults over the age of 50.
Know the signs
You may not even realise you’re experiencing hearing loss, especially if it’s happened gradually over time. Here are some common signs:
● Struggling to follow conversations, especially in loud places
● Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
● Listening to music or turning up the TV louder than others prefer
● Feeling tired or stressed from having to concentrate while listening
● Difficulty hearing on the phone
If any of these signs seem familiar, perhaps it’s time for a hearing assessment.
At The Ear Place, we offer comprehensive hearing assessments in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. Whether you’re noticing changes or just want to be proactive with your health, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. A simple hearing test could make a big difference in your quality of life today and in the years to come. Book a hearing assessment today!