Overview
- Dr Ahmad Khundakar says small shifts in everyday behaviour, not only memory lapses, can point to early dementia.
- Struggling to follow conversations may indicate hearing loss and is reported as a potential sign of cognitive issues.
- The Alzheimer’s Society reports that hearing problems beginning between ages 40 and 65 are associated with a higher risk of dementia.
- Charity guidance notes some evidence that hearing-aid use can lessen cognitive symptoms or slow decline, though prevention is unproven.
- People concerned are advised to book a free hearing test at an optician, speak to a GP, or seek an NHS audiology referral.