Untreated hearing loss can impact more than just your ability to hear—it can also affect your brain health. Without regular auditory stimulation, areas of the brain responsible for hearing and speech comprehension may begin to decline. This can lead to difficulties with memory, concentration, and even an increased risk of dementia.
There are also indications that untreated hearing loss can accelerate dementia.
“Brain scans show us that hearing loss may contribute to a faster rate of atrophy in the brain,” Lin says. “Hearing loss also contributes to social isolation. You may not want to be with people as much, and when you are you may not engage in conversation as much. These factors may contribute to dementia.”
As you walk, your ears pick up subtle cues that help with balance. Hearing loss mutes these important signals, Lin notes. “It also makes your brain work harder just to process sound. This subconscious multitasking may interfere with some of the mental processing needed to walk safely.”
