Protecting hearing is essential for preserving brain health, according to experts who warn that untreated hearing loss can accelerate cognitive decline and increase the risk of dementia.
Speaking at a conference in Geneva on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, neuroscientist Anne-Lise Giraud Mamessier emphasized that hearing serves as a fundamental gateway to language and brain function. “Language allows us to develop concepts and stimulates specific areas of the brain, particularly the temporal lobe, which is essential for memory,” she explained.
When hearing declines, the brain must work harder to process sounds, which can impair other cognitive functions such as memory and attention. Research shows that untreated hearing problems may speed up cognitive deterioration and raise the likelihood of developing dementia.
Giraud Mamessier likewise highlighted the issue of “hidden hearing loss,” where individuals struggle to understand speech in noisy environments despite having normal hearing in quiet settings. She urged early prevention, recommending that children be taught to protect their ears—such as by using earplugs at concerts or movies—and undergo regular hearing tests.
Additional research cited by France Alzheimer indicates that uncorrected hearing loss in older adults is a modifiable risk factor that could multiply the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease or related conditions by two to five times.
The findings underscore the importance of hearing health not only for communication but also for long-term brain wellness, making early detection and prevention a key public health priority.
