Many people know that hearing loss can be linked to other health related concerns (eg. diabetes, kidney disease, and anxiety). However, over the last ten years significant research has linked hearing loss to cognitive decline. Studies suggest that older people with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Untreated hearing loss can be associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline.
There are several theories as to why cognitive decline and hearing loss are linked. One theory has to do with cognitive load. When we have untreated hearing loss our brain is having to work extra hard to understand speech and sound. As a result, oftentimes, the overworked brain does not work efficiently. Secondly, research shows that brain cells actually shrink when they are not stimulated properly. Therefore, those areas of the brain that receive and process the sound are no longer structured or performing in the same way if hearing loss is present. Lastly when a person has trouble hearing conversations and socializing, they often start self-isolating. The more a person self-isolates, the less stimuli their brain receives. In conclusion, it is likely a combination of all of the theories that can lead to the faster rate of cognitive decline when hearing loss is present (especially if it is untreated).
Now let's consider the statistic that most people wait 7-10 years following first noticing their hearing loss to get fit with hearing aids. That is a substantial amount of time! Treating the hearing loss sooner, rather than later, can have some positive effects. Studies have shown that the proper use of hearing aids can actually lower your risk factor of dementia. What research has found is that people with hearing loss who don’t use hearing aids had a higher rate of dementia and depression when compared to people with hearing loss who did use hearing aids. Those participants that wore properly fitted hearing aids experienced cognitive decline at a rate similar to those people who do not have any hearing loss.
In order to prevent cognitive decline, it is very important to monitor and track your hearing loss. It is recommended that everyone have their hearing checked annually. It is also important to treat any hearing loss you may have early, as to keep your brain stimulated and healthy.
Sources:
Wei et al. 2017, Hearing Impairment, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies.
Amieva et al. 2015, Self-Reported Hearing Loss, Hearing Aids, and Cognitive Decline in Elderly Adults: A 25-Year Study.