How Hearing Aids Reduce Dementia

Researchers have discovered a link between hearing loss and increased risk of other health issues, including cognitive decline. Recent studies suggest there isn’t just a connection between dementia and hearing loss, but hearing loss is a strong contributing factor for dementia.

According to statistics and large studies, hearing loss accounts for 8% of dementia cases. That means 800,000 of approximately 10 million newly diagnosed dementia cases yearly might be due to hearing loss.

This year, a National Institute on Aging study led by Johns Hopkins began to determine whether hearing aids can reduce the risk of cognitive decline associated with dementia.

What Do the Studies Say About Hearing Loss and Dementia?

Various studies show how much hearing loss can affect a person's cognitive function. One particular study found an association between mild hearing loss and a two-fold higher risk of developing dementia. Severe hearing loss comes with five times greater risk of dementia within ten years.

Another study shows that participants with hearing loss experienced cognitive decline at rates 30-50% faster than those with normal hearing.

Researchers believe the auditory centers in a person's brain start degenerating due to less auditory input from hearing loss. This promotes cognitive decline as the brain struggles to use more resources for processing auditory information and less on other functions, such as memory and learning.

Can Dementia Be Prevented?

Hearing aids amplify and process sounds so the wearer can interpret them easier. This boosts auditory input to the brain. With different types and models of technologically advanced hearing aids, people with hearing loss can choose the best one to suit their needs.

Evidence of hearing aids helping to mitigate symptoms of dementia after diagnosis isn’t substantial. However, studies show the potential for treating hearing loss with hearing aids to prevent the brain from deteriorating by overcompensating to process sounds and noises. Hearing aids could give the brain the rest it needs and slow or postpone the onset of dementia.

A large study showed that older adults with a higher risk of dementia may be able to reduce their risk of cognitive decline by almost 50 percent by using hearing aids.

Where to Buy Hearing aids

The studies on hearing loss and dementia in 2024 are promising. hear.com offers a variety of innovative hearing aids, including:

These two devices are nearly invisible. With their award-winning design, you’ll forget that you’re wearing hearing aids in your ears. They offer a significant level of speech clarity so you can communicate with others in any environment, from small meetings to loud parties. You can also connect them to your smartphone to make phone calls and stream your favorite TV shows.

Why Hear.com?

A common question people with hearing loss ask is, "can dementia be reversed?” Additional studies are necessary to determine whether hearing aids can reverse cognitive decline. However, studies do show you might be able to prevent dementia and related medical conditions.

At hear.com, we work with the country's top 2% of leading hearing professionals. When you come to us, we will evaluate your condition to determine which quality hearing aids are most suitable for you. Our team focuses on providing unmatched service and quality products. We aim to accomplish life-changing results while addressing our customers’ hearing-related issues.

Contact hear.com Today to Learn More About Hearing Aids and Dementia

Take our questionnaire to find out if you qualify for a risk-free hearing aid trial. Don’t wait another second to address your untreated hearing loss and dementia.

Contact a Hearing Specialist

Resources

Learn everything you need to know about hearing aids and hearing loss.