#Japan #Tokyo #Dementia #Hearing Loss #Tokyo Women's Medical University

Exploring the Surprising Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia

Tokyo Women's Medical University, located in the heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo, is set to host a groundbreaking symposium on September 26, 2026. The event, titled “The Surprising Relationship Between Hearing Loss and Dementia—Latest Insights from Hearing Research,” aims to shed light on how hearing impairment may be a modifiable risk factor for dementia. Recent studies have increasingly focused on this connection, highlighting the potential dangers aging-related hearing loss poses to cognitive function.

Understanding the Issue

Epidemiological research has consistently indicated that age-related hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline. This relationship is thought to be influenced by various factors, including decreased auditory input, which places significant stress on the brain, alongside social isolation. These multifaceted issues demonstrate that something as seemingly simple as hearing loss can have profound implications on mental health, particularly in the context of dementia.

During this informative symposium, a variety of experts from different fields will discuss their latest findings regarding hearing loss, tinnitus, and the latest advancements in hearing aids. Each speaker will offer insights in an accessible manner, ensuring that attendees leave with a better understanding of the topic and its implications.

Event Details

• - Date: September 26, 2026 (Saturday)
• - Time: 13:30 - 15:45 (JST)
• - Location:

- In-Person Venue: Yayoi Memorial Hall, Tokyo Women's Medical University (8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo)
- Online: Live streaming via Zoom Webinar

• - Admission Fee: Free
• - Target Audience: Open to the public, including medical professionals and those involved in education and research.

Event Agenda

1. 13:30 - Opening Remarks by Shōhei Mitani, President of the Tokyo Women's Medical University Society
2. 13:35 - Greetings and Explanation of Symposium's Objective by Kunio Mizuta, Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology
3. 13:40 - Ikue Uchida from Aichi Medical University: “Hearing Loss and Dementia—Social Impacts and Countermeasures”
4. 14:30 - Break
5. 14:40 - Takumi Kurio from Kitasato University: “Why Do We Hear Tinnitus? Can It Be Cured? The Mysterious Relationship Between Ear and Brain”
6. 14:55 - Ryuta Usami from Tokyo Women's Medical University: “Types of Hearing Loss and Treatment—How to Address Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss”
7. 15:10 - Kunio Mizuta again: “Can Dementia Be Prevented with Hearing Aids? Latest Insights on Hearing Devices”
8. 15:25 - General Discussion: Future Strategies for Hearing Loss in an Aging Society

How to Register

In-Person Attendance

No prior registration is required for those attending in person. Just head directly to the Yayoi Memorial Hall at Tokyo Women's Medical University on the day of the event.

Online Attendance via Zoom

Participants wishing to attend online should fill out the application form linked below. After registration, a confirmation email will be sent with a URL to access the event.
Application Form

For more detailed information, attendees can refer to the official Tokyo Women's Medical University society website:
Official Website

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding the symposium, please reach out to the Tokyo Women’s Medical University Society Office at:

• - Address: 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8666
• - Phone: 03-3353-8111
• - Email: [email protected]

For media inquiries, contact:

• - Tokyo Women's Medical University Public Relations Office
• - Address: 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-8666
• - Phone: 03-3357-4804
• - Email: [email protected]