Treating your loss of hearing can be good for your brain. At least, that’s according to a new study by a group of analysts from the University of Manchester. Over the period of approximately 20 years (1996 to 2014), nearly 2000 men and women were evaluated by these researchers. The outstanding conclusions? Managing your loss of hearing can slow dementia by as much as 75%.
That’s a considerable number.
But is it really that surprising? The importance of the finding, of course, is still relevant, that type of statistical connection between hearing loss treatment and the fight against dementia is noteworthy and shocking. But it aligns well with what we currently know: treating your loss of hearing is imperative to slowing cognitive decline as you age.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
Scientific studies can be perplexing and inconsistent (should I eat eggs, shouldn’t I eat eggs? How about wine? Will that help me live longer?). The causes for that are long, varied, and not all that relevant to our discussion here. Because here’s the bottom line: yet further proof, this research suggests untreated hearing loss can lead to or exacerbate cognitive decline including dementia.
So what does this indicate for you? In some ways, it’s fairly straight forward: you should come see us immediately if you’ve noticed any hearing loss. And you should begin using that hearing aid as advised if you find out you require one.
Hearing Aids Assist in Preventing Dementia When You Wear Them Regularly
Regrettably, not everyone falls right into the practice of using a prescribed pair of hearing aids. Some of the reasons why are:
- The hearing aid isn’t feeling like it fits very well. If you are experiencing this issue, please contact us. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
- It’s hard to make out voices. In many instances, it takes time for your brain to adapt to hearing voices again. We can recommend things to do to help make this endeavor go more smoothly, such as reading along with an audiobook.
- The way hearing aids look concerns you. You’d be surprised at the range of designs we have available now. Some models are so subtle, you may not even see them.
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel 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.
Clearly wearing your hearing aids is essential to your health and future mental faculties. If you’re struggling with any of the above, come see us for an adjustment. Sometimes the answer will take time or patience, but consulting your hearing specialist to ensure your hearing aids work for you is a part of the process.
And taking into consideration these new findings, managing your hearing loss is more significant than it ever has been. Hearing aids are protecting your hearing health and your mental health so it’s essential to take that treatment seriously.
What’s The Link Between Dementia And Hearing Aids?
So what’s the actual link between dementia and hearing loss? Social isolation is the leading theory but experts are not completely sure. When suffering from hearing loss, some people hide themselves away socially. Sensory stimulation is the basis of another theory. All senses stimulate activity in the brain, and some researchers theorize that losing stimulation can lead to cognitive decline over time.
Your hearing aid will help you hear better. And that can help keep your brain active, creating a more effective natural safeguard against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why a link between the two shouldn’t be surprising and why hearing loss treatments can slow down dementia by as much as 75%.
