[Dementia: relevant aspects for otorhinolaryngologists]

The aging of society observed during the past century in industrialized countries has not only led to a longer life expectancy, but also an increased frequency of age-related diseases and multimorbidity. In addition to dysphagia and vertigo, sensory deficits such as olfaction and hearing disorders are common in elderly persons and have a significant influence on quality of life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. Epidemiological studies have recently shown that disorders of olfaction and hearing are not only associated with dementia, but also represent specific risk factors for development and progression of the disease. Recognition and adequate treatment, e.g., of hearing loss, by otorhinolaryngologists is thus assuming an increasingly important role, not only to preserve patients' quality of life, but also to reduce the risk of developing dementia in the future.