Treating your loss of hearing can be good for your brain. At least, that’s according to a new study from a University of Manchester study group. These researchers considered a team of around 2000 participants over the course of just about twenty years (1996 to 2014). The unexpected results? Treating your hearing loss can slow dementia by up to 75%.
That is not a small number.
But is it actually that surprising? That’s not to detract from the significance of the finding, of course, that kind of statistical connection between hearing loss treatment and the battle against dementia is noteworthy and stunning. But it aligns well with what we already know: as you age, it’s vital to treat your hearing loss if you want to hold off dementia.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
You can’t always rely on the content provided in scientific studies because it can frequently be contradictory. The reasons for that are lengthy, diverse, and not all that pertinent to our topic here. Because here’s the main point: yet further proof, this research implies untreated hearing loss can lead to or exacerbate cognitive decline including dementia.
So what does this mean for you? It’s straightforward in some ways: if you’ve been noticing any possible signs of hearing loss, come see us as soon as you can. And you should start wearing that hearing aid as directed if you discover you require one.
When You Wear Them Correctly, Hearing Aids Can Counter Dementia
Sadly, when most people are prescribed with hearing aids, they don’t always immediately get into the habit of wearing them. The usual reasons why include:
- 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 way hearing aids look concerns you. You’d be amazed at the range of designs we have available currently. Some models are so discreet, you may not even see them.
- It’s hard to understand voices. Your brain doesn’t always immediately adjust to hearing voices. There are some things we can recommend, like reading along with an audiobook, that can make this situation easier.
- The hearing aid isn’t feeling like it fits perfectly. If you are experiencing this problem, please let us know. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
Obviously wearing your hearing aids is crucial to your health and future mental abilities. We can help if you’re having difficulties with any of the above. Working with your hearing specialist to make sure your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it requires time and patience.
And taking into consideration these new findings, dealing with your hearing loss is more important than ever. Take the treatment seriously because hearing aids are safeguarding your hearing and your mental health.
Dementia And Hearing Aids, What’s The Connection?, What’s The Link?
So why are these two health conditions dementia and loss of hearing even associated in the first place? Social solitude is the leading theory but experts are not completely sure. When coping with hearing loss, some people isolate themselves socially. Sensory stimulation is the foundation of another theory. In time, if a person loses sensory stimulation, such as hearing loss, the brain receives less activity which then results in cognitive decline.
You hear better with a hearing aid. Supplying a natural defense for your brain against cognitive decline and helping to keep your brain active. That’s why taking care of hearing loss can delay dementia by as much as 75% percent and why it shouldn’t be unexpected that there is a connection between the two.