Learn More — and Take Action for Improved Wellness Now
Changes in hearing and vision are common with aging. But when both occur at the same time, known as dual sensory impairment (DSI) or dual sensory loss, the affect can be greater than many people realize.
In fact, your brain health could be at stake, making it all the more important to take care of your hearing and sight. Learn more about the potential connections and what you can do to protect two of your most vital senses.
What Is Dual Sensory Impairment?
Dual sensory impairment refers to the presence of hearing loss and vision loss at the same time. It doesn’t require complete deafness or blindness. Even partial reductions in hearing and vision together qualify as DSI.
With DSI global prevalence estimated at 5.50% and that rate expected to rise by more than 27% by 2050, increased awareness is critical. As prevalence climbs, increasing awareness and early identification becomes increasingly crucial to support long-term health and quality of life.
Why Is DSI Significant in Relation to Brain Health?
Both hearing and vision loss are separately associated with increased likelihood of cognitive decline in older adults. Together, however, they present the highest risk for cognitive impairment over those who don’t have DSI.
Findings in one study showed an 8X greater risk of cognitive problems in adults with both vision loss and self-reported hearing loss. In a 2025-released report, DSI was associated with an estimated 50% increased risk of developing dementia compared to no sensory impairment.
A major Lancet Commission analysis found that about 45% of dementia cases globally may be delayed or reduced by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors, including hearing and vision loss. This reinforces sensory health’s potential vital role in long-term brain wellness.
How Are DSI and Cognitive Decline Connected?
The exact mechanisms of dual sensory impairment and cognitive decline aren’t yet conclusive. Two possibilities:
- Increased cognitive load may play a role. When hearing and vision are impaired, the brain must work harder to process incomplete sensory information. This extra effort may leave fewer cognitive resources available for tasks such as thinking and remembering.
- Sensory loss is linked to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. When communication becomes difficult, people may withdraw from conversations or activities they once enjoyed. Loneliness and social disengagement are both associated with higher dementia risk.
Though not directly related to cognitive decline, DSI in older adults is also associated with greater physical decline — particularly in balance, muscle strength, and overall performance — compared to individuals with single sensory impairment. Paired with cognitive changes, physical decline may further erode independence and quality of life.
The Good News? Hearing Loss Is Treatable
If you or someone you care about experiences any of the following, it may be time to schedule a hearing assessment:
- Ringing in the ears or head (tinnitus)
- Frequent requests for others to repeat themselves
- Trouble understanding speech clearly
- Difficulty listening in crowds
- Loved ones complaining about TV volume
- A dementia diagnosis or other cognitive issue
- Perception that others are mumbling
- Decreased social engagement
Most hearing loss can be effectively managed with professionally fit hearing aids, which are more empowering than ever, including crisp sound, noise reduction, AI-enhanced personalization, and other benefits. In addition, research increasingly links hearing technology with a slower rate of cognitive decline in some populations.
How Can Thigpen Hearing Center Help?
Eye care experts recommend that adults through age 64 generally have vision exams at least every two years or annually for those 65+. Be sure to consult your eye-care provider. For optimal audiologic care, we recommend a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by regular exams to monitor hearing health.
At Thigpen Hearing Center, PLLC, our licensed doctors of audiology are highly trained to evaluate and manage hearing loss. We provide comprehensive assessments, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support tailored to your specific needs.
Our goal is simple: to help you stay healthy, sharp, and engaged. By addressing hearing loss —especially in the presence of vision challenges — we can potentially help reduce cognitive-health risks, improve communication, and support your overall well-being.