Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline: Is There a Connection?

Many people ask if there is a connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline. They have heard talks about hearing loss causing dementia and they are concerned. They want to know if there is some truth to this, or if it is simply a scare tactic to sell hearing aids.

Studies have found a link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline.

As we get older, we begin to lose connections between neurons in our brain. This is a normal part of the aging process.

As we get older, our hearing deteriorates and we begin to find it difficult to hear and discriminate the softer speech sounds. We use our eyes (lip reading occurs automatically without thought) and cognition to assist us in following a conversation.

With hearing loss we need to concentrate more, and use more mental energy to stay connected to people. Yet our brain’s ability to process information is reduced and slowing down. This makes communication more difficult, which can lead to an increase in social isolation.

Studies show that social isolation is associated with cognitive decline. If hearing loss can cause social isolation, then it stands to reason that it may have an impact or at least increase the risk of cognitive decline.

Symptoms of hearing loss and cognitive decline can be the same. Difficulty understanding speech and finding simple conversations exhausting can be a sign of either issue. Forgetting what someone told us, may not be about memory if we did not hear them accurately or at all. How can we expect to remember things if we cannot hear them in the first place?

Regardless of the research, it is vital to have regular hearing checks to monitor our hearing and ensure that if we have hearing loss, we are taking the necessary steps to reduce our risk of cognitive decline. Wearing hearing aids, if needed, helps us to stay socially engaged and connected with our loved ones and friends.