Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the link between hearing loss and dementia causal?
This is the key question researchers are working to answer. Right now, we have incredibly strong evidence of an association or a link—people with hearing loss have a significantly higher risk. The three mechanisms of cognitive load, brain atrophy, and social isolation provide a biologically plausible explanation for how hearing loss could contribute to the dementia process. While we await the final results from randomized controlled trials to prove direct causation, most experts agree that hearing loss is, at the very least, a major contributing risk factor that should be addressed.
If I get hearing aids, will my dementia risk disappear?
Hearing aids are not a magic bullet, and dementia is a complex disease with many risk factors, including age and genetics, that we cannot change. However, treating hearing loss is considered one of the most impactful modifiable actions you can take. By getting hearing aids, you are addressing a major risk factor and potentially reducing your overall risk profile significantly. It is a powerful step within a broader, holistic approach to brain health that also includes diet, exercise, and social engagement.
I think my hearing is fine. Should I still get tested?
Absolutely. Age-related hearing loss is exceptionally gradual, and the brain is very good at compensating for it in the early stages. You may not notice a problem until it is already moderate. A professional hearing test can detect subtle changes long before you would recognize them yourself. Establishing a baseline in your 50s allows you and your doctor to track any decline over time and intervene at the earliest possible stage, which is when treatment is most effective.
Are over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids a good option?
The recent availability of OTC hearing aids is an exciting development for making hearing care more accessible for adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. They can be a good starting point for some individuals. However, for a comprehensive diagnosis, a proper fitting, and to rule out other medical causes for hearing loss, a consultation with an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is always the gold standard. They can ensure the device is programmed correctly for your specific pattern of hearing loss.
Does the severity of hearing loss correlate with the level of dementia risk?
Yes, the existing research shows a clear dose-response relationship. The more severe the hearing loss, the higher the associated risk of dementia. Studies from Johns Hopkins researchers found that even a mild hearing loss doubled the risk of dementia. A moderate loss tripled the risk, and a severe hearing loss was associated with a five-fold increase in risk. This underscores the importance of addressing hearing loss even in its earliest, mildest stages.
