Does Tinnitus Increase Dementia Risk? What the Science Really Says

Scary headlines have made many people living with tinnitus worry about dementia—but what does the research actually show? In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett breaks down the latest studies linking tinnitus, hearing loss, and cognitive decline, and explains why many online claims are misleading. While tinnitus itself does not cause dementia, hearing loss—often present alongside tinnitus—is now recognized as the largest modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline. Dr. Garrett walks through major research findings, including the ACHIEVE trial and the 2024 Lancet Commission on Dementia, showing that treating hearing loss with properly fitted hearing aids can significantly slow cognitive decline—by nearly 50% in higher-risk adults. He also explains how untreated hearing loss increases cognitive load, reduces auditory stimulation, and contributes to social isolation, all of which affect brain health. For those with tinnitus, this episode highlights why hearing aids are often the foundation of treatment—but not always the full solution. Dr. Garrett discusses comprehensive tinnitus care, including education, CBT-based strategies, FDA-approved bimodal neuromodulation, REM-verified hearing aid fittings, and outcome tracking. If you've been worried by tinnitus–dementia headlines, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical next steps grounded in real science. Learn more at: https://utahhearingaids.com/learning-center Schedule an evaluation in Northern Utah: https://utahhearingaids.com