Is there a link between Hearing loss and dementia?

Hearing loss is a common condition. According to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care about 3.6 million Australians have some level of hearing loss.

As with other areas of the human body, we also experience wear and tear in our inner ear, the cochlea, which may cause an age-related hearing loss. In addition to the inconvenience and frustration this can cause, hearing loss has also been linked to an increased risk of dementia. A client summed it up for us the other day by saying “Getting old is not for the faint hearted”.

While the link between hearing loss and dementia is seen as established by researchers, the detailed mechanisms are still debated. One possibility that is mentioned frequently is that hearing loss may lead to social isolation. When people have difficulty hearing, they may withdraw from social activities and conversations.

This is due to the effort of communicating becoming too great or it feels too embarrassing asking friends and family to repeat themselves, it can seem easier to simply not attend get-togethers. This can lead to loneliness and depression, both of which are known risk factors for dementia.

Another possible link being explored is that untreated hearing loss may cause cognitive decline. As the brain must work harder to process sound, it has fewer resources available for other cognitive tasks, such as memory and attention. This may be a reason for cognitive decline over time.

The number of studies which have found a link between hearing loss and dementia is growing though. For example, a large study published in the journal JAMA Neurology found that people with hearing loss were twice as likely to develop dementia as people with normal hearing.

Another study, published in the journal Lancet Neurology, found that people with severe hearing loss were five times more likely to develop dementia than people with normal hearing. It is important to mention though that hearing loss is a risk factor in developing dementia, which means a link between the two has been verified. It does not mean that dementia is caused by hearing loss as is also pointed out by Dementia Australia.

Looking forward this means the recognised link between hearing loss and dementia has several implications for us all. First, it suggests that treating hearing loss may help to reduce the risk of developing dementia. Second, it suggests that people with hearing loss might benefit from screening for dementia regularly.

But where do I start you may wonder. If you have not had your hearing tested in the last few years, that is the best place to start. Your hearing care practitioner will explain the results and advise you if any further steps are recommended.

Should you have a hearing loss, there are a number of things you can do to protect your brain health:

• Get treated for your hearing loss. Hearing aids can help to improve your hearing and communication skills.
• Stay socially connected. Make an effort to spend time with friends and family, and participate in social activities.
• Stay mentally active. Challenge your brain with puzzles, games, and other activities.
• Get regular exercise. Exercise is good for your overall health, including your brain health.

If you are concerned about your dementia risk, talk to your doctor. They can assess your risk and recommend strategies to reduce your risk.

We at Ear Studio are happy to help you with all your hearing concerns. If you find yourself noticing any of these signs, or have more questions about your hearing ability, book your next appointment today.

To book, phone (02) 9159 6122 or Email: [email protected] or visit www.earstudio.com.au Ear Studio is located at Suite 9-10/60 Cecil Avenue, Lawton House in Castle Hill. TRADING HOURS: Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm and Fridays 9am – 4pm by appointment only. “Proudly independent and locally owned“