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Hearing Loss, Hearing Aids, and Alzheimer's/Dementia

Older adults with untreated hearing loss are more likely to suffer cognitive decline, increased fall risk and accelerated brain tissue loss than adults with no hearing impairment. However, studies show that problems with memory and problem-solving are less severe when people wear hearing aids.

Millions of Americans over age 50 have some form of hearing loss, but only a small percentage of those needing a hearing aid get one, leaving the problem and its consequences untreated. Additionally, social isolation and loneliness are risk factors for cognitive decline, and may contribute to cognitive weakening in people with untreated hearing loss. 

As you age, it's important to have your hearing tested and to have any hearing loss treated to lessen the potential effects of Alzheimer's/dementia and cognitive decline. Hearing aids are a well-tested tool to improve hearing. By treating hearing loss, older adults are able to maintain a more active lifestyle while reducing fall risk and preserving brain tissue and cognitive functioning.

Do you or a loved one have trouble hearing?

We can diagnose and treat many types of hearing loss.

Find an audiologist at St. Luke's