When we age, many of us notice changes in vision and hearing. While a few decibels louder TV volume may seem harmless, Dr. Stephanie Rogers, a professor of medicine in the division of geriatrics at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, warns that untreated hearing loss is the leading modifiable risk factor for dementia.
Why hearing matters for the brain
Hearing loss places a heavy cognitive load on the brain. “When one can’t hear well, the brain expends a lot of energy trying to decode speech,” Dr. Rogers explains. That extra effort depletes mental reserves needed for other tasks such as forming and consolidating memories.
In addition, reduced auditory input can cause certain brain regions to atrophy because they are not being stimulated. This sensory deprivation may also diminish neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to rewire itself and adapt to new challenges.
Perhaps most importantly, hearing loss often leads to social isolation. People who struggle to follow conversations may withdraw from social gatherings, increasing another well‑known risk factor for cognitive decline.
When to get screened
Hearing loss can begin subtly in early adulthood and worsen over decades. Dr. Rogers notes that loud noise exposure can start damaging hearing in the teenage years and twenties. If you notice difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments—such as a restaurant—or find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves, it may be time for a check‑up.
She recommends that everyone receive a hearing screening at age 50, then every three to five years until age 65, and annually or biennially after that. Even if you do not notice any problems, routine screening can catch early loss before it impacts daily life.
Treatment options
Hearing aids are the first‑line treatment for age‑related hearing loss. Over‑the‑counter devices can help those with mild‑to‑moderate loss, while prescription‑grade hearing aids are available for more severe cases. Both options have become more affordable and accessible in recent years.
Beyond devices, protecting your ears from loud environments—using earplugs at concerts or limiting headphone volume—can prevent further damage.
Supporting overall brain health
Dr. Rogers also emphasizes that hearing health is just one piece of a broader strategy to reduce dementia risk. Maintaining healthy cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and engaging in regular exercise all contribute to a resilient brain and heart.
By addressing hearing loss early and adopting a heart‑healthy lifestyle, adults can significantly lower their chances of developing dementia later in life.
Original reporting: Richardson, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
