The #1 Modifiable Risk Factor for Cognitive Decline (And Why Most People Ignore It)
When people think about cognitive decline or dementia, they often think about memory. But what if one of the biggest predictors isn’t memory at all? What if it’s something much more common—and often overlooked?
Hearing loss
What Research Shows
Large, long-term studies—including those from the Lancet Commission—have identified hearing loss as one of the leading modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia.
In fact, among all preventable risk factors, hearing loss is often ranked at or near the top.
That means:
It’s not just about hearing—it’s about brain health
What Does “Modifiable Risk Factor” Mean?
A modifiable risk factor is something you can identify and address.
Unlike age or genetics, hearing loss is something you can:
Test
Monitor
Treat
And that’s where the opportunity lies.
Why Hearing Loss Affects the Brain
There isn’t just one reason—there are several:
1. Increased Cognitive Load
When hearing is reduced, the brain has to work harder to fill in missing sounds.
Over time, this extra effort can take resources away from memory and thinking.
Reference: Frank Lin et al. (2011). Hearing loss and incident dementia. Archives of Neurology.
2. Reduced Stimulation
The brain thrives on input.
When hearing decreases, parts of the brain receive less auditory stimulation, which may contribute to decline.
Reference: Frank Lin et al. (2014). Association of hearing impairment with brain volume changes. NeuroImage.
3. Social Withdrawal
Hearing loss often leads to:
Avoiding conversations
Withdrawing from social situations
Feeling isolated
Social isolation itself is a known risk factor for cognitive decline.
Reference: National Academies of Sciences (2016). Hearing Health Care for Adults: Priorities for Improving Access and Affordability.
The Important Takeaway
Hearing loss doesn’t automatically cause dementia.
But untreated hearing loss is strongly associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline.
The earlier it’s addressed, the better.
Can Treating Hearing Loss Help?
Emerging research suggests that:
Using hearing aids
Staying socially engaged
Reducing listening effort
…may help support cognitive health.
While hearing aids are not a cure for dementia, they are an important part of overall brain health care.
Reference: Frank Lin et al. (2023). Hearing intervention and cognitive decline (ACHIEVE study). The Lancet.
When Should You Get Your Hearing Checked?
Many adults wait years before testing their hearing.
Instead, consider a hearing test if you:
Notice difficulty in conversations
Turn the TV up louder than others
Feel more fatigued after listening
Or simply:
If you’re over 60 and haven’t had a baseline test
A Personal Perspective
As an audiologist—and someone who wears hearing aids myself—I understand both sides of this process.
Getting your hearing tested isn’t just about hearing better.
It’s about staying connected, confident, and mentally engaged.
Protecting Your Brain Starts with Awareness
Cognitive health is influenced by many factors.
But hearing is one of the few we can actually do something about.
Book a Hearing Test in Burlington
If you’re thinking about your long-term health—or a loved one’s—this is a simple place to start.
At Empathy Hearing Clinic, we focus on clear answers, personalized care, and long-term hearing health.
Book your hearing test today