Could looking after your hearing also support brain health?

Hearing loss is one of the modifiable risk factors for dementia, but new research from the ISLAND Project suggests it may also be linked to other health factors that influence dementia risk.

Could looking after your hearing also support brain health?

In a recent publication, researchers analysed data from more than 8,000 ISLAND participants. They compared people with no hearing loss, people with uncorrected hearing loss, and people whose hearing loss was satisfactorily corrected, such as through hearing aids or other assistive listening devices. 

The study found that participants with corrected hearing loss were less likely to be in higher-risk categories for alcohol use, diabetes and cholesterol management than some of the other groups. 

The researchers note that this study cannot tell us whether hearing correction directly causes these differences. However, the findings reinforce the growing recognition that hearing health is an important part of healthy ageing and may be connected to a range of factors that influence long-term brain health. 

What can you do?

If you've noticed changes in your hearing, consider speaking with your GP or an audiologist about a hearing assessment. Early identification and management of hearing loss may help you stay engaged, connected and proactive about your overall health.