When you think of dementia, you might not think that your level of hearing can be linked to your dementia risk. However, there are multiple studies that show a link between dementia and hearing loss, most notably if your hearing loss begins in your middle-aged years (between 40 and 65 years of age).
According to the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, hearing loss can cause your brain to have additional strain, which can result in a decrease in your thinking and problem-solving skills and lead to memory loss and dementia.
Also, hearing loss can cause you to become socially isolated if you avoid social gatherings. If you feel lonely and depressed due to hearing loss, this can increase the risk of decreased brain functioning and dementia.
Two types of hearing loss that can particularly increase dementia risk include:
- Peripheral hearing loss, which causes your ears to detect less sound
- Central hearing loss, which causes the brain to be less able to process sounds
Not everyone who experiences hearing loss will develop dementia, but it is important to receive treatment for hearing loss soon after it starts to reduce your risk and help your brain function the best it can. The length of time you have hearing loss and the severity of your hearing loss can affect your risk. If you experience hearing loss for a long time, the areas in your brain that process sounds and speech can shrink.
The following are early signs of hearing loss you can watch for:
- Asking people to repeat themselves more often
- Having trouble keeping up with conversations, especially in loud places
- Turning up the volume on your electronic devices
Treatment for Hearing Loss
If you are noticing signs of hearing loss, make an appointment with your primary care provider. Your primary care provider can refer you to an audiologist, who can complete an evaluation with hearing testing, provide treatment options and help you select hearing aids or assistive listening devices if needed. Treatment for your hearing loss will reduce the strain on your brain, which can lower your dementia risk.
Preventing Hearing Loss
To prevent hearing loss, it is important to avoid spending excessive time in loud environments or listening to loud music. If you must be in a loud environment, you can protect your ears with headphones or earplugs.
It is also important to see your primary care provider for a regular checkup each year to make sure your hearing and brain health are good and to address any issues as soon as they pop up.
Expert Audiology Care
Serving patients from birth to the golden years, UofL Physicians – Hearing & Balance provides top-notch clinical care, education and research related to deafness, hearing loss and balance disorders. With locations downtown and in the East End of Louisville, UofL Physicians – Hearing & Balance prides itself on being a top-tier clinical audiology program in Louisville. To make an appointment, call 502-583-3687.
Dementia Care Options
Seek care if you are experiencing the following symptoms, which could indicate dementia:
- Problems with short-term memory
- Inability to plan meals or pay bills
- Confusion regarding time and place
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Trouble with talking or writing
- Changes in mood or personality
University of Louisville Trager Institute/Republic Bank Foundation Optimal Aging Clinic, a part of the Department of Family and Geriatric Medicine with University of Louisville School of Medicine, has a Brain Health and Dementia Care interdisciplinary team that offers comprehensive evaluation, treatment plans and care navigation. Call 502-588-4340 to schedule an appointment.
UofL Physicians – Neurology, part of UofL Health – Brain & Spine Institute, also offers a range of services for people with dementia. Call 502-588-4800 to schedule an appointment.
