Did you know hearing loss is actually a chronic disease? As we get older, it’s much more common and can require different treatments as it gets worse. During National Diabetes Awareness Month and National Alzheimer’s Month, it’s important to understand how hearing loss is linked to your overall health—including conditions like diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
Hearing Loss Changes As You Age
- About 1 in 2 adults over 75 lives with hearing loss.
- Hearing loss often starts mild, but it can progress and may require new treatments throughout your life, such as hearing aids, implants, or various therapies.
- If not managed, hearing loss increases the risks for depression, falls, and dementia.
Untreated Hearing Loss Raises Dementia and Alzheimer’s Risk
- People with serious hearing loss are much more likely to develop dementia. Severe hearing loss can increase dementia risk by up to five times.
- Using hearing aids or implants can cut the risk of mental decline and dementia by 32% or more in those at risk, according to studies published in top medical journals like JAMA Neurology and NIH - this is based on recent large cohort studies.
Hearing Loss & Diabetes: A Dangerous Duo
- If you have diabetes, your risk for hearing loss is about twice as high. High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in your ears, just like it does in your eyes and kidneys.
- Controlling diabetes can help protect your hearing—and lower your risks for other health problems.
What You Can Do Next
- Schedule a hearing check—especially if you're over 60 or living with diabetes.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about all your options, including the latest hearing technologies and support tools.
- Explore alternatives if traditional hearing aids aren’t working for you due to cognitive, dexterity, or vision challenges—fully implanted devices may be a better fit.
- Already using hearing aids? If you’re still struggling to understand speech, ask your provider whether a cochlear implant might help.
Key Takeaways
Get your hearing checked regularly starting at age 45, especially if you have diabetes, cardiovascular disease, a history of stroke, or depression.
Don’t ignore persistent hearing challenges—advanced solutions like middle ear or cochlear implants could make a big difference.
Stay informed—hearing technology is evolving quickly, and new options may offer better results than ever before.
Take action early—treating hearing loss can help protect your memory, mood, and independence.
Disclaimer: This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please consult a licensed healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications or hearing health.