Almost one million people in the UK currently live with dementia, about one in every 11 people aged 65 and older. The Alzheimer's Society warns this number could rise to 1.4 million by 2040 due to an ageing population.
Hearing Loss and Dementia Risk
Research shows that untreated hearing loss is one of the biggest modifiable risk factors for developing dementia. Studies indicate that the level of hearing loss is closely linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline. Data shows that people with severe, untreated hearing loss are up to five times more likely to experience dementia than those with normal hearing.
A long-term study by specialists at Johns Hopkins University, spanning more than ten years, examined the connection between hearing loss and brain health. The findings revealed a clear relationship between auditory health and cognitive behaviour:
- Mild hearing loss: Doubles the risk (a 200% increase).
- Moderate hearing loss: Triples the risk (a 300% increase).
- Severe hearing loss: Increases the risk up to fivefold (a 500% increase).
Even mild, untreated hearing loss—commonly defined as the inability to hear soft sounds like whispers—can double the risk of being diagnosed with dementia. This risk increases as hearing deteriorates.
Hearing Aids Can Reduce Cognitive Decline
Addressing hearing loss is seen as a major modifiable risk factor for maintaining brain health. Research shows that using hearing-restorative devices can slow cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk. A meta-analysis published in JAMA Neurology found that using hearing aids and cochlear implants is associated with a 19% reduction in the risk of long-term cognitive decline.
The multicenter ACHIEVE trial revealed that for older adults at higher risk of cognitive decline, using hearing aids reduced the rate of decline in thinking and memory skills by 48% over three years.
Why Hearing Loss Affects the Brain
When hearing is impaired, the brain must use far more neural resources for 'effortful listening' and sound interpretation. This increased strain can drain the cognitive reserves needed for memory, planning, and complex thought. Additionally, struggling to follow conversations often leads to social withdrawal. Since social interaction is essential for maintaining brain health, isolation caused by untreated hearing loss can contribute to cognitive decline.
How to Protect Your Hearing
While hearing loss is a risk factor for dementia, it does not mean someone will definitely develop it. Cognitive health is influenced by many factors. However, detecting hearing issues early and getting help through regular hearing tests and, if needed, hearing aids is important.
The NHS recommends keeping the volume at 60% of your device's maximum setting, avoiding inserting cotton buds into your ear canals, using earplugs in noisy places like concerts, and drying your ears thoroughly after swimming to prevent infections.
Boots Hearingcare advises people to treat their hearing the same way they treat their vision, getting regular checks with a local audiologist to monitor for early signs of hearing loss.
Hearing Test Frequency
Hearing test frequency depends on age and risk factors. For healthy adults with no symptoms:
- Ages 18–40: Every three to five years.
- Ages 40–60: Every one to three years.
- Ages 60+: Annually (regardless of symptoms).
Test annually or more frequently if you are regularly exposed to loud noise, have a family history of hearing loss, have conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, or experience symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, or difficulty following conversations.
In the UK, free hearing checks are available via Specsavers Hearing or Boots Hearingcare. Consult your GP for sudden changes in hearing or for NHS referrals.
