Is untreated hearing loss tied to dementia? Yes, research shows a strong link between the two, with untreated hearing loss raising the risk of dementia through several brain-related effects.[1][2][3][4]
Hearing loss affects more than just your ears. It changes how the brain works. When you struggle to hear, your brain uses extra effort to make sense of sounds, especially in noisy places. This extra work, called cognitive load, tires out the brain and leaves less energy for memory and thinking.[1][3][4]
Studies from places like Johns Hopkins University paint a clear picture. People with mild hearing loss have double the chance of getting dementia. Moderate hearing loss triples the risk. Severe cases make it five times more likely.[2][3]
Why does this happen? One reason is auditory deprivation. Without clear sounds, parts of the brain that handle hearing get less active. Over time, these areas shrink, and nearby spots for memory and attention suffer too.[1][3]
Social isolation plays a role as well. Untreated hearing loss makes conversations hard, leading to less talking with friends and family. This loneliness adds stress and speeds up mental decline.[2][4][6]
The Lancet Commission, a key group studying dementia, says hearing loss boosts dementia risk by about 32 percent. It may contribute to 7 percent of cases worldwide.[4]
Good news comes from treatment studies. The ACHIEVE trial found that hearing aids cut cognitive decline by 48 percent in high-risk older adults over three years.[2] People using hearing aids often see slower brain changes and stay sharper longer.[3]
Even mild hearing loss matters. Catching it early with hearing aids or other help keeps the brain engaged and reduces strain.[5]
Brain scans back this up. Untreated hearing loss leads to faster shrinking in sound and memory areas. Treatment sends clear signals back to the brain, helping it stay strong.[3]
Shared health issues like poor blood flow can harm both hearing and brain health, making the link even stronger.[2][4]
Sources
https://www.bravohearing.com/hearing-loss-and-dementia/
https://baycrestfoundation.org/articles/brain-matters/hearing-loss-dementia-risk/
https://hearbest.com/hearing-and-brain-health/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12697576/
https://www.hearcarolina.com/blog/hearing-loss-and-dementia-cognitive-decline-prevention/
https://www.rockymountainaudiology.com/hearing/hearing-loss-and-dementia.php
