Hearing Loss: The Number One Modifiable Risk Factor for Dementia
As we get older, the world gradually starts looking and sounding a little different. Our vision may not be as sharp as it once was, and we may need to hit the "increase volume" button on the remote a few extra times to hear the television. Most people will experience some degree of age-related hearing loss, which usually becomes more apparent over the age of 60. However, hearing problems can begin even earlier in life, and leaving them unaddressed may seriously impact brain health.
Dr. Stephanie Rogers, a professor of medicine in the division of geriatrics at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, tells TODAY.com that untreated hearing loss is the No. 1 modifiable risk factor for dementia. Modifiable risk factors are behaviors or exposures that can influence our risk of developing a disease. Unlike non-modifiable risk factors such as genetics, these can be changed.
How Does Hearing Loss Harm the Brain?
According to Dr. Rogers, hearing loss typically begins subtly in early adulthood and slowly accrues over decades. "Loud noise damage can start to occur in your teens and 20s," she says. If you experience noticeable hearing changes or problems during mid-life, it's time to get checked out.
Hearing loss damages the brain through three main mechanisms:
- Increased cognitive load: When one can't hear as well, the brain expends a lot of energy trying to decode speech. This depletes the reserve available for other cognitive tasks, like the encoding of memories or memory consolidation.
- Neural atrophy: Reduced auditory input may cause certain parts of the brain to atrophy or weaken because they aren't being used as much anymore. Sensory deprivation can also reduce neuroplasticity, or our brain's ability to adapt and rewire itself.
- Social isolation: Many people who can't hear as well start to not participate in conversations or social situations. It can cause an otherwise outgoing, bubbly person to become more withdrawn. Social isolation is another major risk factor for dementia.
What Signs Suggest You Need a Hearing Check?
Dr. Rogers notes that usually the first sign is difficulty understanding speech when there is background noise, such as in a restaurant. Other common signs include:
- Sounds becoming muffled
- Finding yourself asking people to repeat themselves
- Needing to turn the radio or television volume higher
If you're experiencing any of these issues, talk to your doctor. They may refer you to a specialist for further testing.
Hearing Screening Recommendations and Interventions
"Everyone should get screening, whether you notice hearing loss or not, at age 50, then every three to five years until age 65, then every one to three years after age 65," Rogers adds.
There are over-the-counter hearing aids for patients with mild-to-moderate loss, which can help the majority of people. There are also prescription hearing aids for more severe hearing loss.
Other Lifestyle Habits to Promote Brain Health
In addition to addressing hearing loss, Rogers recommends other lifestyle habits to promote brain and heart health, which may reduce dementia risk:
- Controlling cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure
- Not smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol intake
- Consistent exercise
Taking care of your hearing is the first step to protecting your brain. The Xiaoshu Health App can sync with Apple Health to track related metrics, helping you comprehensively manage your hearing, cardiovascular, and cognitive health data for smarter, simpler health management.