Secrets of Cognitive Super Agers
Want to Stay Sharp as You Age? Don’t Ignore Your Hearing
Most of us want to stay sharp, active, and independent as we age. Researchers have long studied a group of older adults known as “cognitive super agers,” people in their 70s, 80s, and beyond who maintain memory and thinking skills comparable to those much younger. What’s their secret? Genetics play a role, but lifestyle choices are just as important. One surprising factor that’s making headlines: hearing aids.
The Link Between Hearing and Brain Health
Hearing is more than just processing sounds. It’s closely tied to how the brain works. When hearing loss goes untreated, the brain has to work harder to fill in the gaps, which can take energy away from memory and thinking. Over time, this extra strain may increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Whereas treating hearing loss with hearing aids helps the brain stay engaged. Clearer hearing makes it easier to stay socially active, communicate with others, and keep the mind stimulated. All of these are key to maintaining long-term brain health.
What Research Is Showing
Recent studies highlight how much of a difference hearing aids can make:
Slower cognitive decline – The National Institutes of Health funded a study that showed older adults who used hearing aids showed a slower rate of memory loss compared to those who don’t.
Lower dementia risk – A JAMA study, published in April 2025, found that up to a third of dementia cases in older adults may be tied to untreated hearing loss.
Improved quality of life – A study by the USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, found that people with hearing aids reported feeling more connected, less isolated, and better able to enjoy conversations and activities.
These findings suggest that hearing aids may be one of the secret weapons that help cognitive super agers maintain their sharpness well into later years.
Why Many People Delay
Despite the benefits, many people wait an average of seven years after noticing hearing changes before getting help. During that time, the brain is missing valuable sound input, which can accelerate the challenges tied to hearing loss. Common reasons for delay include stigma, cost concerns, or the belief that hearing loss is “just part of aging.”
At HEAR Wisconsin, we encourage people to view hearing care as part of whole-body wellness; just like exercise, nutrition, and regular medical check-ups.
Take Charge of Your Hearing Health
If you want to age well and protect your brain health, addressing hearing loss early is one of the smartest, and easiest, steps you can take. Here’s how to start:
Schedule a hearing exam – A comprehensive evaluation will identify if hearing loss is present and how significant it is.
Consider hearing aids – Modern hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and designed to fit seamlessly into daily life.
Stay socially engaged – Most hearing aids are Bluetooth compatible, making staying in touch with friends and family easier than ever.
Make it part of wellness – Think of hearing care as an investment in your cognitive health, not just your ears.
Cognitive super agers may have many secrets, but research makes one thing clear: hearing health plays a big role. By treating hearing loss early, you’re not just improving how you hear, you’re also protecting how you think, remember, and connect.
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, don’t wait. Contact HEAR Wisconsin’s Audiology Clinic at 414-604-7219 to schedule a comprehensive hearing exam.