Updated August 21, 2025
If you feel drained after conversations or find it harder to think clearly when you can’t hear well, you’re not imagining it. Research shows that untreated hearing loss doesn’t just affect your ears—it strains your energy and even your brain.
At Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus, we’ve seen this first-hand while helping thousands of people in Utah County, from American Fork to Spanish Fork. Now, new studies confirm what many patients already know: hearing loss can lead to daily fatigue and can also affect cognitive health.
Table of Contents
- How Hearing Loss Causes Fatigue
- The Link Between Hearing Loss and Cognition
- Fred’s Story: Fatigue, Memory, and Recovery
- What You Can Do to Protect Your Energy and Brain
- FAQ
How Hearing Loss Causes Fatigue
A 2023 study published in JAMA Otolaryngology followed more than 3,000 adults age 40 and older. Those with hearing loss were twice as likely to report fatigue “most days” or “nearly every day” compared with people with normal hearing.
Why does this happen? Hearing loss forces the brain to work harder to fill in gaps and interpret speech, especially in noisy settings. This “listening effort” uses mental energy that would otherwise go toward memory, focus, or social engagement. Over time, this leads to a constant sense of exhaustion.
The Link Between Hearing Loss and Cognition
A 2025 study in the Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology looked at 134 adults with hearing loss and tested their memory and thinking. The results showed:
- Bilateral hearing loss was linked to worse scores than one-sided loss.
- Sudden hearing loss and balance problems increased the risk of poor cognitive results.
- People with mild hearing loss scored better on memory and orientation tasks than those with moderate to severe hearing loss.
In other words, untreated hearing loss doesn’t just make listening harder—it may also affect how well you remember, think, and process information.
Fred’s Story: Fatigue, Memory, and Recovery
Fred, a recent patient, came to us worried. He had moderate hearing loss and felt tired all the time. Even more concerning, he noticed his mental sharpness slipping—he couldn’t keep up with conversations or process information as quickly as before.
We ran a Cognivue screening, which confirmed his concerns. His scores were lower than expected for his age, especially in executive function and processing speed.
The good news? After just six months of prescriptive hearing aid treatment combined with LACE (Listening and Communication Enhancement) therapy, Fred’s Cognivue scores improved. He reports that not only is he hearing better, but he feels more energetic, clearer-headed, and more confident.
Fred’s story reflects what the research tells us: treating hearing loss doesn’t just restore sound—it protects your brain and your quality of life.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Energy and Brain
The good news: hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor. That means taking action can help.
- Use hearing aids. Research suggests properly fitted hearing aids reduce listening fatigue and may support long-term brain health.
- Address tinnitus and balance concerns. Both are linked with greater strain on memory and thinking. Learn more in our Tinnitus Treatment Options.
- Give your brain breaks. Step out of noisy spaces and rest between conversations.
- Get tested early. Even mild hearing loss has measurable effects, but timely treatment makes a difference.
📘 Want to learn more? Visit our Learning Center or check out our free books and reports.
Take the First Step Toward Better Hearing
Listening fatigue and memory concerns are not just part of “getting older.” They may be signs of untreated hearing loss. By addressing hearing health early, you protect your energy, your brain, and your quality of life.
📞 Request your free consultation today take the first step toward better hearing and better living or watch the video below to learn more.
FAQ
Why does hearing loss make me feel so tired?
Because your brain works harder to fill in missing sounds, which drains mental energy.
Can hearing loss affect memory and thinking?
Yes. Research shows untreated hearing loss is linked with poorer cognitive performance and a higher risk of decline.
Do hearing aids help with fatigue?
Yes. Modern devices reduce listening effort, which can improve energy levels and social engagement.
Is listening fatigue permanent?
No. Many patients notice significant improvement once their hearing is treated.
When should I get tested for hearing loss?
If you feel constantly tired after conversations, notice memory lapses, or struggle in noisy places, it’s time for a hearing test.
