By Sarah Sesslar, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology/Ear Nerd
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month—a time dedicated to better understanding how we can protect and preserve brain health as we age. At Decibels Audiology, we talk a lot about the connection between hearing loss and the brain, because one of the most common questions I hear from patients is: “Is it true that hearing loss can lead to Alzheimer’s?”
The short answer is: There is a strong connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline, but the relationship isn’t as simple as cause and effect. And the good news? There’s a lot we can do about it.
Let’s unpack the research and clear up a few common myths.
Myth #1: Hearing Loss Causes Alzheimer’s Disease
This is one of the biggest misunderstandings I hear. While untreated hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, it’s not accurate to say that hearing loss causes the disease. Alzheimer’s is a complex neurological condition influenced by many factors—age, genetics, cardiovascular health, and more.
But what we do know is that hearing loss can be a significant risk factor. In fact, a major 2020 report from The Lancet Commission identified hearing loss as the single most modifiable risk factor for dementia. That means addressing your hearing loss is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect your brain.
Myth #2: Hearing Aids Are Just About Hearing
We often think of hearing aids as tools to help us hear conversations or watch TV more clearly. And while they do that, their benefits go far beyond sound.
When your hearing starts to decline, your brain works harder to fill in the gaps. This extra effort—called “cognitive load”—can reduce mental sharpness, memory, and energy over time. You may not even realize it’s happening, but your brain is reallocating resources just to help you follow everyday speech.
Wearing hearing aids helps relieve that mental strain, freeing up your brain to focus on other tasks. Studies have shown that individuals who treat their hearing loss with properly fitted hearing aids experience slower rates of cognitive decline, maintain better social connections, and report higher overall quality of life.
Myth #3: My Hearing Isn’t Bad Enough to Worry About
This is something I hear all the time, especially from younger retirees or adults in their 50s and 60s. But here’s the truth: even mild hearing loss can increase your risk of cognitive decline if it’s left untreated.
The brain is highly adaptable, but it’s also use-it-or-lose-it. If the auditory pathways in your brain aren’t being stimulated regularly, they can begin to weaken. That’s why early detection and treatment are so important.
I always recommend a baseline hearing screening by age 55—and sooner if you’ve noticed signs like turning up the TV, asking others to repeat themselves, or struggling in noisy environments. You don’t have to wait until hearing loss is severe to take action.
The Social Connection
One of the most overlooked consequences of hearing loss is how it impacts social engagement. When conversations become frustrating or exhausting, many people begin to withdraw—skipping out on dinners, avoiding phone calls, or feeling left out of family events. Over time, this isolation can lead to loneliness, depression, and increased risk of cognitive decline.
Maintaining strong social relationships is critical for brain health. That’s why treating hearing loss is about more than just hearing—it’s about staying connected to the people and experiences that keep us mentally and emotionally well.
What the Latest Research Says
Recent studies continue to reinforce the link between hearing loss and brain function:
• A 2023 Johns Hopkins study found that older adults with untreated hearing loss were more likely to experience faster cognitive decline compared to those who wore hearing aids.
• Another large-scale study showed that treating hearing loss reduced the risk of developing dementia by nearly 50% in older adults with other risk factors.
These findings are not meant to alarm—they are meant to empower. Hearing care is one of the few areas of health where you can take simple, proactive steps to improve your long-term cognitive health.
A Whole-Health Approach to Hearing
At Decibels Audiology, we take a holistic view of hearing care. Our goal isn’t just to help you hear—we want to help you live better, longer, and more connected. We work with all major hearing aid manufacturers to find the best solution for your unique hearing profile, lifestyle, and budget.
If you’re already wearing hearing aids, make sure to schedule regular follow-ups to keep your devices performing at their best. If you’ve never had a hearing test, now is the perfect time to establish a baseline and take that first step toward protecting your brain health.
Let’s Hear It for Your Brain
This Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, I invite you to think of your hearing not just as a sense—but as a vital part of your brain’s overall wellness.
Whether you’ve noticed hearing changes or simply want to be proactive, we’re here to help. A simple hearing screening could be the first step toward clearer sound, stronger connections, and a healthier future.
Call today and schedule your complimentary hearing test and consultation.
Helping Southwest Florida hear better for over 15 years!
Decibels Audiology & Hearing Aids
239-325-0596
napleshearingaids.com