The connection between hearing loss and brain health is a growing concern, especially as 10,000 Americans will turn 65 daily through the end of 2029. Today, an estimated 48 million adults in the US have hearing loss, making it one of the most common health conditions.
Why it matters
Hearing loss is much more than missing out on conversations. It's a serious threat to your brain health, increasing your risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
- AARP reports that 78% of adults over 50 would be more likely to address hearing loss if they knew it could harm their brain health.
- This highlights a crucial awareness gap, as many don't realize the potential consequences of untreated hearing loss.
Johns Hopkins researchers quantified the risk of dementia from untreated hearing loss this way:
- Mild hearing loss, 2X increased risk
- Moderate hearing loss, 3X increased risk
- Severe hearing loss, 5X increased risk
In a nutshell, healthy hearing for a healthy brain
Good news
Hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, is treatable. Hearing aids, for example, can significantly improve hearing, reducing the risk of social isolation, falling, and dementia.
A closer look
The Global Council on Brain Health, a collaboration of medical experts, emphasizes prioritizing hearing health to protect cognitive well-being. They advocate for regular hearing screenings to detect hearing loss early, enabling more effective treatment.
► Download the report from the Global Council on Brain Health →
According to a June 2024 AARP survey of adults aged 50+:
- 59% have NOT had a hearing test in the last 5 years.
- Only 38% of all adults aged 50+ say their hearing is excellent.
What to know
To preserve your hearing — and earn a big thank you from your brain — do the following:
- Wear ear protection in noisy places.
- Address hearing loss concerns immediately.
- Schedule annual hearing screenings.
Reduce your risk of dementia
★ Call 708-599-9500 to schedule a free, 15-minute hearing screening by an audiologist.
★ For facts about hearing loss and hearing aid options, download The Hearing Loss Guide.
★ Sign up for our newsletter for the latest on Hearing aids, dementia triggered by hearing loss, pediatric speech and hearing, speech-language therapies, Parkinson's Voice therapies, and occupational-hearing conservation. We publish our newsletter eight times a year.
Don't let hearing loss rob you of your health and happiness.
