Understanding the links between hearing and cognitive decline
In November 2024, the British Society of Audiology, the British Academy of Audiology, and the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists published a position statement on adult hearing loss and dementia. These professional bodies argue that misinformation surrounding the links between them promotes a sense of alarm and stigma around hearing loss.
In this blog post, we will try and make sense of this position statement.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a group of symptoms that can affect memory, problem-solving, language, and behaviour, making it hard for someone to carry out activities alone. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia.
Is there an association between adult-onset hearing loss and dementia?
Yes, there is. However, an association means that someone with a hearing loss is more likely to have dementia, and likewise, someone with dementia is more likely to have a hearing loss.
Is there evidence that treating hearing loss can reduce the risk of acquiring dementia?
This report says there isn’t any good evidence to support this claim.
Is hearing loss a big problem in the world?
Yes, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that hearing loss is the third leading cause of disability worldwide.
What are the consequences of untreated hearing loss?
Untreated adult-onset hearing loss can result in communication difficulties for spoken language that can lead to social isolation and withdrawal, depression and reduced quality of life. Hearing tests are often overlooked by adults and here at The Hearing Space, we recommend a full hearing test at ages 55, 60 and 65. See our ‘Hearing Test‘ page for more information.
Hearing aids with appropriate support are the primary intervention for adults with hearing loss.
Hearing aids effectively improve hearing and general health-related quality of life.
Did the Lancet review of dementia and ways to reduce risk suggest that treating hearing loss could help prevent dementia?
It did. The Lancet is a highly regarded medical science journal. In 2017, it published a report on dementia (updated in 2024). It identified hearing loss in mid-life as a potentially modifiable risk factor for dementia.
What does a potentially modifiable risk factor mean?
Essentially, treating a person’s hearing loss can reduce the chances of acquiring dementia or reduce its impact if it is acquired.
Is the Lancer report not accurate?
This is the position statement’s focus. Researchers Dawes and Munro argue that the information provided by the Lancet is misleading.
What does the position statement say?
It recognises the consistent evidence of an association between hearing loss and cognitive decline in adults with acquired hearing loss.
However, association is not causation. For example, hearing loss could be associated with dementia because they both share the same underlying cause e.g., vascular disease.
Do hearing interventions reduce dementia risk?
There is no convincing evidence that hearing interventions reduce the risk of dementia in the general population.
If there is no evidence that hearing loss causes dementia, why do I read about this?
This is most likely a misunderstanding of the evidence.
Are my chances of having dementia higher if I have hearing loss?
Adults with hearing loss have a slightly greater chance of having dementia. As an example, if we look at 1000 people with no hearing loss, then around 10 people will have dementia.
For every 1000 people with a hearing loss, we would expect 14 to have dementia. So, an increased risk of 4 in 1000.
Will wearing hearing aids reduce my risk of getting dementia?
Hearing aids are amazing devices that allow people to hear better in many different situations. For more information, see our ‘Hearing Aids‘ page. This leads to more social engagement, better quality of life, and increased well-being. However, there is currently no evidence that wearing hearing aids reduces the risk of dementia.
What can we say about hearing loss and dementia?
Based on current evidence, hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. The additional risk is small. However, there is no good evidence that hearing loss causes dementia. To read the full satement, click ‘BAA position statement’.
What is the take-home message?
Hearing loss is one of the most significant health issues in the world. Left untreated, hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal and reduce a person’s quality of life. Modern hearing aids are incredibly beneficial and can massively improve a person’s ability to hear and quality of life.
Dementia and hearing loss are associated, but as yet, there are no proven causal links.
If you feel you are not hearing as well as you used to, book a full hearing test with our experienced Clinical Director, Paul Shaw (Clinical Scientist). Paul can show you how your hearing compares to your age group, whether hearing aids may be beneficial, and when you should next get a hearing check if you don’t currently need them. Or call for more information, 0113 8730444.