Your brain can be helped by taking care of your hearing loss. At least, that’s according to a new study by a group of analysts out of the University of Manchester. Over the period of about 20 years (1996 to 2014), nearly 2000 individuals were evaluated by these researchers. The outstanding results? Dementia can be slowed by as much as 75% by dealing with loss of hearing.
That’s a considerable figure.
But still, it’s not really that surprising. That’s not to detract from the significance of the finding, of course, this is an important statistical correlation between the struggle against cognitive decline and the treatment of hearing loss. But it aligns well with what we currently know: treating your loss of hearing is imperative to slowing dementia as you get older.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
You can’t always rely on the information provided in scientific studies because it can in many cases be inconsistent. The causes for that are lengthy, varied, and not all that relevant to our discussion here. Because here’s the main point: yet another piece of evidence, this research implies neglected loss of hearing can lead to or worsen cognitive decline including dementia.
So what does this mean for you? It’s straightforward in some ways: if you’ve observed any potential signs of hearing loss, come see us in the near future. And you really should start using that hearing aid as directed if you find out you need one.
Hearing Aids Assist in Preventing Dementia When You Wear Them Regularly
Sadly, when most people are prescribed with hearing aids, they don’t always instantly get into the habit of using them. Some of the reasons why are:
- The hearing aid doesn’t seem like it works as advertised. Many people need to have their settings adjusted, and calibration problems are definitely something that can be addressed by our hearing specialists.
- It’s hard to understand voices. In some cases, it takes time for your brain to adapt to hearing voices again. There are some things we can suggest, including reading along with an audiobook, that can help make this process go more smoothly.
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel like it fits perfectly. If you are experiencing this issue, please let us know. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
- You’re concerned about how hearing aids appear. Presently, we have lots of designs available which might amaze you. Additionally, many hearing aid models are created to be very discreet.
Your future mental abilities and even your health as a whole are clearly impacted by using hearing aids. If you’re struggling with any of the above, get in touch with us for an adjustment. Consulting your hearing professional to make certain your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it requires time and patience.
It’s more significant than ever to manage your loss of hearing especially taking into consideration the new findings. Take the treatment seriously because hearing aids are protecting your hearing and your mental health.
Hearing Aids And Dementia, What’s The Link?
So why are these two problems dementia and hearing loss even linked to begin with? Analysts themselves aren’t exactly certain, but some theories are related to social isolation. When coping with hearing loss, some people isolate themselves socially. A different theory relates to sensory stimulation. Over time, if a person loses sensory stimulation, like hearing loss, the brain receives less activity which then leads to mental decline.
Your hearing aid helps you hear better. And that can help keep your brain active, delivering a more powerful natural safeguard against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why dealing with hearing loss can delay dementia by as much as 75% percent and why it shouldn’t be surprising that there is a link between the two.
