Taking steps to address hearing loss early may be one of the most effective ways to support cognitive health and lower the risk of dementia.
By Elissa Kawamoto, Au.D.
As we observe World Alzheimer’s Month each September, it’s a timely reminder that protecting our brain health starts long before memory problems arise. While many think of mental wellness in terms of memory exercises or diet, recent research points to an often-overlooked factor: hearing.
A study published in JAMA Neurology in August 2025 found that adults who needed hearing aids and began using them before the age of 70 can reduce their risk of developing dementia by as much as 61 percent. The findings underscore an important truth: Treating hearing loss early is not just about improving sound, but also about safeguarding cognitive function for the long term.
Take Action, Early
Hearing loss forces the brain to work harder to interpret sounds, a phenomenon audiologists often compare to “squinting with your ears.” Over time, this added strain can lead to fatigue and make social interactions feel exhausting.
Left unaddressed, hearing loss may also prompt people to withdraw from conversations, family gatherings, or social activities, which can further contribute to cognitive decline.
Timing is critical. The JAMA study emphasizes that interventions before age 70 offer the strongest protective benefits. Once certain neural pathways connected to hearing begin to weaken, they become difficult to restore. Early treatment—including hearing aids—helps the brain remain active in processing sound, preserving its ability to adapt and respond effectively.
Adults who needed hearing aids and began using them before the age of 70 can reduce their risk of developing dementia by as much as 61 percent. Credit: @mark0polo/Unsplash
Hearing aids are a proven, accessible form of treatment. They not only restore sound but also help maintain social connections and engagement in meaningful activities. If a person is indicated for hearing aids, starting to use them early can make the adjustment smoother, allowing users to integrate devices into daily life naturally.
Individuals who begin using hearing aids sooner often report reduced fatigue, more active social lives, and increased independence. Delaying treatment can result in a steeper learning curve and fewer long-term cognitive benefits.
So why do many people postpone hearing care? For some, it’s denial—they may frequently ask others to repeat themselves, increase the TV volume, or assume people are mumbling. These are common early signs of hearing loss that often go unnoticed. Others may have outdated perceptions of hearing aids, worried about appearance or implications about aging.
I often guide clients to reflect on how hearing challenges affect their daily interactions. Can you follow conversations in noisy restaurants? Do you miss parts of your grandchildren’s stories? Are you avoiding favorite hobbies because communicating feels difficult? Recognizing these gaps can be a motivating first step toward reclaiming what’s been lost.
Hear Better, Think Better
Family support can make a meaningful difference. Encouragement delivered with empathy often helps loved ones take action. Instead of expressing frustration—“I’m tired of repeating myself”—consider framing it collaboratively. Suggest that you and your loved one both get hearing checks. Approaching it as a shared experience can reduce anxiety and make the process easier to accept.
For many, life-changing improvements come from experiencing better hearing firsthand. One of my clients who teaches fishing to children realized he had been missing their voices entirely. After a short trial with hearing aids, he described the difference as dramatic, reconnecting with students, friends, and family, and rediscovering joy in everyday conversations. This renewed social interaction also stimulates the brain, providing meaningful cognitive benefits.
Starting with a hearing test is an easy first step. Even if immediate treatment isn’t necessary, it establishes a baseline and opens the door to future discussions about options. And then, if hearing aids are needed, using them consistently every day maximizes their effectiveness, making them a long-term investment in cognitive health and independence.
World Alzheimer’s Month reminds us that protecting our brain begins with early, informed choices. Hearing care is increasingly recognized as a key factor, with research showing that timely use of hearing aids can dramatically reduce dementia risk.
By identifying hearing loss early and taking action, you give yourself the best chance to remain sharp, socially engaged, and true to yourself. Prioritizing hearing health today can profoundly influence your tomorrow.
Elissa Kawamoto, Au.D., is an audiologist at HearUSA in Phoenix. She received her doctorate in audiology from Arizona State University. She is dedicated to advancing hearing healthcare and educating patients and their families on the impact of hearing loss on overall health and wellness.
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As we observe World Alzheimer’s Month each September, it’s a timely reminder that protecting our brain health starts long before memory problems arise.