Essential things to start a conversation about hearing and brain health

World Alzheimer’s Day is a cue to begin brave, stigma-reducing talks on hearing and brain health with family, friends, and caregivers—because conversations today shape support tomorrow.

This year’s World Alzheimer’s Day theme is a powerful reminder that starting the conversation can be the first step toward breaking stigma and building understanding. Dementia and hearing loss are both very common health conditions^1,2 — and too often, both are left unspoken.

Starting the conversation early helps create opportunities for timely support, appropriate care, and staying connected. Because hearing health is vital to brain health¹, talking openly about both can help families, friends, and caregivers act early and with confidence.

To support these conversations, our expert, Dr. Maren Stropahl, Director of Holistic Hearing Care, shares five essentials to help you start the dialogue about hearing health.

1. Hearing health supports brain health. When hearing declines, the brain needs to work harder to fill in gaps, which can affect communication and social interactions.³ A hearing check is a proactive step to avoid social withdrawal due to hearing loss.
2. Use person-centered and responsible language. Lead with “hearing care supports brain health,” ask open questions, and share relevant knowledge like how the ears and the brain work together. Through communication that normalizes hearing loss, emphasizes empowerment and positive outcomes, and removes shame or embarrassment associated with seeking support we aim to reduce the stigma.
3. Share Smart Habits like: protect ears from loud noise, check your hearing regularly, seek care early, stay socially and physically active, and stimulate the brain with sound.
4. Invite involvement, not overwhelm. Include family, friends, and caregivers in discussions and decisions, which can bring higher satisfaction.⁴ Create a simple care pathway with clear next steps and contacts.
5. Act together. Be aware of first signs of changes in hearing or a change in behavior in your surroundings. Raising awareness and having an open and responsible conversation is key for early actions.

On World Alzheimer’s Day, start the conversation today—one honest question, one listening ear, one small action at a time.