One-Third of Dementia Cases Linked to This Treatable Condition

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted May 16, 2025

Dementia is on the rise—and the number of cases is expected to double by 2060.

Most people focus on common risk factors like diet, exercise, or genetics. But one of the biggest threats to your brain health is something most of us take for granted…

Until it starts to fade away.

Worse yet, research shows this threat could be responsible for nearly one in three dementia cases.

The link between hearing and dementia is becoming clearer with every study.

You read that right—your ears could play a vital role in your cognitive future.

A new study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery revealed a shocking statistic that should make us all sit up and listen.

Up to 32 percent, nearly one-third, of dementia cases could be attributable to hearing loss.

When researchers analyzed over eight years of data from nearly 3,000 older adults, they found a surprisingly strong connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline.

What’s troubling is how many of us simply accept hearing loss as an inevitable part of aging.

We joke about turning up the TV or asking people to repeat themselves, but the consequences could be far more serious than we ever imagined.

When you can’t hear well, your brain works overtime to fill in the gaps. This constant strain may accelerate cognitive decline.

Plus, hearing loss often leads to social isolation as conversations become frustrating, and we know that loneliness is another major risk factor for dementia.

However, unlike some risk factors, hearing loss is often treatable and sometimes preventable.

Here are some practical steps you can take to protect your hearing and brain health:

• Get your hearing checked regularly, especially after 50. Don’t wait until you’re struggling to follow conversations.
• Invest in quality hearing aids if needed. Today’s models are smaller, more effective, and less noticeable than ever before. Many manufacturers offer monthly payment plans to help. And, in some cases, Medicaid or other insurance plans may pay part of the cost.
• Protect your ears from loud noises. Use earplugs at concerts, while lawn mowing, or in noisy environments.
• Turn down the volume. Whether it’s your headphones, TV, or car stereo, keeping the volume moderate can preserve your hearing.
• Manage conditions affecting hearing, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Try auditory training exercises to help your brain process sounds more effectively. These exercises can be self-directed, such as using a smartphone app, or guided by a professional, such as an audiologist or speech-language pathologist.

Taking care of your hearing isn’t just about avoiding the inconvenience of asking “What?” all the time. It could be one of the most critical steps you take to protect your brain for the long haul.

So, the next time your spouse or child suggests you might need a hearing check, don’t brush it off. Your future brain health may depend on it.

And another thing…
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P.S. This delicious diet could slash your risk of hearing loss.

Source:

Ishak E, Burg EA, Pike JR, et al. Population Attributable Fraction of Incident Dementia Associated With Hearing Loss. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. Published online April 17, 2025. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2025.0192