Treating your loss of hearing can be good for your brain. At least, that’s according to a new study by a group of researchers from the University of Manchester. These analysts considered a group of more than 2000 individuals over a time period of nearly twenty years (1996 to 2014). The striking results? Dementia can be slowed by up to 75% by treating loss of hearing.
That is not a small figure.
But is it actually that surprising? The significance of the finding, of course, is still relevant, this is an important statistical connection between the struggle against cognitive decline and the treatment of hearing loss. But it aligns well with what we already know: treating your hearing loss is vital to slowing dementia as you age.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
You can’t always believe the content provided in scientific studies because it can frequently be contradictory. There are many unrelated reasons for this. The main point here is: this new study is yet further proof that suggests untreated loss of hearing can lead to or worsen cognitive decline including dementia.
So what does this indicate for you? It’s very simple in many ways: you should come see us right away if you’ve noticed any loss of hearing. And you should begin using that hearing aid as advised if you find out you need one.
When You Wear Them Correctly, Hearing Aids Can Help Forestall Dementia
Unfortunately, when people are prescribed with hearing aids, they don’t always immediately get into the habit of using them. The usual reasons why include:
- Voices are difficult to understand. In some instances, it takes time for your brain to adapt to recognizing voices again. We can recommend things to do to help make this endeavor go more smoothly, such as reading along with a book recording.
- You’re worried about how hearing aids appear. You’d be amazed at the range of styles we have available currently. Plus, many hearing aid models are designed to be very discreet.
- 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.
- The hearing aid isn’t feeling like it fits very well. If you are experiencing this problem, please get in touch with us. We can help make it fit better.
Your future mental abilities and even your overall health are obviously affected by wearing hearing aids. We can help if you’re trying to cope with any of the above. Consulting your hearing professional to make certain your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it calls for time and patience.
It’s more significant than ever to deal with your loss of hearing particularly taking into consideration the new findings. Hearing aids are safeguarding your hearing health and your mental health so it’s important to take that treatment seriously.
What’s The Link Between Dementia And Hearing Aids?
So why are these two problems dementia and loss of hearing even associated in the first place? Experts themselves aren’t exactly certain, but some theories are associated with social isolation. When dealing with hearing loss, some people isolate themselves socially. A different theory refers to sensory stimulation. All senses induce activity in the brain, and some experts theorize that the loss of stimulation can result in cognitive decline over time.
Your hearing aid allows you to hear better. And that can help keep your brain active, delivering a more robust natural safeguard against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why treating hearing loss can slow dementia by as much as 75% percent and why it shouldn’t be unexpected that there is a connection between the two.