The Relationship Between Hearing Loss and Dementia

In recent years, multiple studies have confirmed there may be a link between hearing loss and dementia. Researchers believe although this connection is small, it could be statistically significant. One 2013 study conducted at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore followed approximately 2,000 adults with an average age of 77. Subjects who experienced hearing loss to the extent that it impacted their ability to conduct a conversation were 24% more likely to experience cognitive decline. A similar study conducted in 2011, also through Johns Hopkins University, confirmed that higher levels of hearing loss were correlated with higher levels of dementia over a 12 to 18-year period.

The Possible Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia 

Most recently, according to a 2018 study published in the scientific journal "Nature," researchers for the Korean National Health Insurance Service extended the results of prior research to populations of adults 40 years of age or older. The results of a longitudinal study following a sample size of over 1,000,000 humans once again confirmed the link between hearing loss and dementia. Although this may seem alarming, global statistics show that approximately only 1% of individuals 60–70 years of age and 6–8% of individuals 85 years of age or older are diagnosed with dementia annually. This means that although there does seem to be a link between hearing loss and dementia, the number of reported cases overall is quite small so there is no need for alarm.

Other Important Considerations

It's important to keep in mind that hearing loss is a natural part of aging. Many organizations offer hearing tests to help determine the percentage of loss and the next steps. Strong hearing contributes to brain health in part because it assists humans in initiating and maintaining social interactions through sustained conversation. Maintaining varied and strong social networks may help maintain mental acuity and memory. A healthy diet, consistent exercise, and general mental health may all be able to help offset the risk of cognitive decline. The most important step for those experiencing hearing issues is to take a hearing test so that they are better informed of their hearing health. The test may determine that hearing aids should be recommended as a way to offset some of the risks associated with hearing loss.

At Absolute Hearing Solutions, we care about not only the hearing health of our patients, but also their overall well being. If you suspect you may have hearing loss, please come into our office for a comprehensive hearing test. We carry an extensive assortment of hearing aids, which can help reduce the chances of developing dementia or similar cognitive issues affecting your social life due to your inability to hear and communicate with your friends and loved ones. Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our trained hearing experts.

To schedule a comprehensive hearing exam, please call ABSOLUTE HEARING SOLUTIONS today at 614-654-4309. Our professional hearing experts bring modern hearing testing, economical digital hearing aids and satisfaction guarantees to the next level! Our office is located at 750 Cross Pointe Rd., Suite F, Gahanna, Ohio. We provide clients with hearing exams, high-quality digital hearing aids, and personalized hearing services you can trust.