01/08/2026
Ever feel totally wiped out after a long conversation, especially in a noisy place?
You’re not imagining it.
When your brain works harder to make up for hearing loss, it can use up energy meant for other tasks, like memory or focus.
This idea is called Cognitive Load Theory, and it helps explain why untreated hearing loss can affect more than just your ears.
Research from Johns Hopkins found that people with hearing loss are up to 5 times more likely to develop dementia if they don’t treat it. (Source: Lin et al., 2011)
Does listening feel exhausting? It might be time for a hearing check.