A nationwide shortage of batteries for NHS hearing aids is underway in the UK, forcing hospitals and GP surgeries to ration supplies. Some patients turn off their hearing aids to conserve batteries. This raises concerns about their health and well-being. Research suggests that hearing loss can contribute to dementia and, if not corrected, can accelerate cognitive loss. The NHS provides long-term hearing aid batteries free of charge. Batteries can be obtained in person from local hospital audiology departments or by post through many NHS trusts. Some GP surgeries also stock them, especially if they work with local NHS audiology services. David Oliver, a consultant geriatrician and former national clinical director of services for older people, called it worrying.