Eneida Agolli, Au.D., CCC-AEneida Agolli, Au.D., CCC-A, is a Senior Hearing Care Professional at AudioNova. You can reach her at 336-852-4095.
As we get older, many of us become more mindful of our health — eating better, staying active, managing blood pressure, and keeping up with regular doctor visits. But one area that’s often overlooked is hearing health. More research is showing that hearing loss doesn’t just affect how well we hear — it may also impact how well we think, remember, and stay mentally sharp.
Studies have revealed a strong link between untreated hearing loss and an increased risk of dementia. One major study from Johns Hopkins University followed older adults over a 12-year period and found that individuals with mild hearing loss were twice as likely to develop dementia. Those with moderate hearing loss had triple the risk, and those with severe hearing loss had five times the risk compared to those with normal hearing. These findings are supported by the World Health Organization, which identified hearing loss as the top modifiable risk factor for dementia in midlife.
So why is hearing connected to memory and brain function? Researchers believe several factors are involved. When our hearing declines, the brain must work harder just to make sense of everyday sounds. That added effort can take resources away from other cognitive tasks like memory and focus. People with hearing loss may also begin to withdraw from social situations — not out of preference, but because conversations become harder to follow. Over time, reduced social engagement can lead to decreased mental stimulation, which is essential for keeping the brain healthy. Brain scans have even shown that untreated hearing loss may contribute to faster shrinkage in areas of the brain tied to memory and processing.
The good news is, there’s something we can do about it. Several studies suggest that treating hearing loss may help slow or reduce cognitive decline. One study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults who used hearing aids had a significantly lower risk of mental decline than those who did not. Another long-term study in France showed that those using hearing aids maintained stronger cognitive function over time.
At AudioNova, we’ve seen the benefits firsthand. Many people come in thinking they just want to stop turning the TV up so loud, or quit asking others to repeat themselves. But what they often gain is far more — better relationships, renewed confidence in social situations, and peace of mind knowing they’re supporting their long-term brain health.
If you’re 55 or older and haven’t had your hearing checked in a while, a quick screening can give you helpful insight. Hearing loss can develop slowly, and it’s easy to miss the signs. Struggling to follow group conversations, needing the TV louder than others prefer, or frequently asking “what?” are all early indicators.
Hearing screenings are fast, painless, and informative. And if a hearing loss is found, today’s hearing aids are more advanced than ever — discreet, easy to use, and packed with features like Bluetooth streaming and noise filtering. Most importantly, they help keep you engaged in conversations, connected to loved ones, and mentally active.
If you have questions about your hearing or are wondering if it’s time to check in, we’re here to help. At AudioNova, our mission is to help you stay sharp, stay social, and hear every meaningful moment.