Wearing a hearing aid before the age of 70 could dramatically reduce the risk of developing dementia, according to new research.
A long-term study published in JAMA Neurology followed nearly 3,000 participants and found that people under 70 with hearing loss who used hearing aids had a 61% lower risk of dementia compared with those who did not.
Despite these findings, only around 1 in 5 people with moderate to severe hearing loss currently wear hearing aids.
Why is hearing linked to dementia?
Researchers suggest several reasons why untreated hearing loss may contribute to cognitive decline:
- Brain changes – Hearing loss may accelerate brain shrinkage and deterioration.
- Cognitive strain – The brain works harder to process unclear sounds, which can reduce capacity for memory and thinking.
- Reduced social interaction – Difficulty hearing conversations often leads to social withdrawal, which limits stimulation and increases isolation.
The UK picture
In the UK, dementia affects nearly 1 million people, and the number is expected to rise sharply as our population ages. Age-related hearing loss is also widespread, with around 40% of over-50s experiencing some form of hearing difficulty.
Common signs include:
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Struggling to follow conversations in noisy environments
- Turning up the television or radio louder than others prefer
Why early intervention matters
Untreated hearing loss doesn’t just affect communication – it has been linked to depression, anxiety, poor relationships, and now, increased dementia risk.
This research underlines the importance of taking action early. Seeking a professional hearing assessment and, where recommended, using hearing aids before the age of 70 could play a crucial role in protecting long-term brain health.
At Coastal Hearing, we’re committed to helping people across North Wales take control of their hearing health. From comprehensive hearing tests to the latest discreet hearing aids, our team is here to support you in staying connected, confident, and engaged with life.
If you're based in North Wales and want to speak to a trusted audiologist, we’re here to help.
📍 Book a hearing test today at Coastal Hearing in Colwyn Bay, Prestatyn, Anglesey, or Mold.