Adults are being advised to get their hearing checked for this Dementia Action Week.

Branches of Specsavers across Dorset, including in Weymouth, are stressing the importance of people having their hearing checked, as they say there is evidence that those with mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia.

Furthermore, people with moderate hearing loss are three times more likely to develop the condition and people with severe hearing loss are five times more likely.

They also point out that research shows the increase of risk was not found in those who use hearing aids.

Amy Nowik, Specsavers Poole audiologist, said: “It takes on average 10 years for someone to seek help for hearing loss, what many people don’t realise is that a hearing test can flag up other health conditions.

“Having your hearing tested could be a simple step to ensure you are taking care of your ear health, and in turn, could reduce your chance of developing dementia.

“Sometimes it can be sudden, but more often than not hearing loss happens gradually and you may not notice it at first, therefore it is worth getting your hearing tested every two years once you reach 55 – it may do more for your health than you realise.”

Dementia Action Week is taking place from Monday, May 19 to Sunday, May 26.

The week aims to increase awareness for and promote conversation about the condition.

Anyone looking for more information or wishes to book at test can visit specsavers.co.uk