At Holistic Hearing Solutions, we’ve recently had the privilege of speaking at PROBUS, View Club, and Odyssey Retirement Village about a topic that is becoming increasingly important for older Australians: the connection between hearing loss and brain health.
As an independent audiology clinic on the Gold Coast, our mission is to help people not only improve their hearing but also protect their overall well-being, including memory, focus, and cognitive function.
Hearing Loss and Memory – The Research is Clear
Recent studies from Johns Hopkins University and The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention show that untreated hearing loss is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for dementia and cognitive decline.
In fact, hearing loss in older adults can increase the risk of developing dementia if left untreated.
Why does this happen? Researchers have identified three main reasons:
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Cognitive Overload: When your hearing is reduced, your brain has to work much harder to process speech and sounds. This leaves less mental energy for memory and clear thinking.
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Social Isolation: Many people with untreated hearing loss withdraw from conversations and group activities, which can speed up cognitive decline.
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Brain Changes: Over time, parts of the brain that process sound can shrink or weaken when they aren’t stimulated by clear hearing.
How Treating Hearing Loss Can Protect Your Brain
The good news is that early treatment for hearing loss—through hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or other interventions—can help protect your brain health.
Benefits include:
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Better communication and less frustration in conversations
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Staying socially connected and engaged in activities
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Reduced listening fatigue and mental strain
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Possible slowing of memory loss and cognitive decline
The ACHIEVE study, one of the largest clinical trials of its kind, confirmed that older adults at risk of dementia who received hearing care had better cognitive outcomes over time than those who didn’t.
Why a Hearing Test is the First Step
If you or someone you love is noticing hearing loss symptoms—such as asking people to repeat themselves, struggling in noisy places, or turning up the TV louder—it’s important to get a hearing test as soon as possible.
Age-related hearing loss can develop gradually, so early detection is key to protecting both your hearing and your memory.
Our Commitment to the Community
Our talks at PROBUS, View Club, and Odyssey Retirement Village have shown us just how many people are eager to learn about the link between hearing loss and dementia. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees appreciating practical advice and real-world strategies to protect both their hearing and their brain health.
If your community group, club, or retirement village would like an educational talk on hearing health, hearing aids, and preventing cognitive decline, contact Holistic Hearing Solutions today on info@holistichearingsolutions.com.au.
Because when you protect your hearing, you protect your mind.