Your brain can be helped by treating your hearing loss. At least, that’s according to a new study out of a University of Manchester study group. These analysts examined a team of more than 2000 participants over a time period of approximately twenty years (1996 to 2014). The striking results? Dementia can be delayed by up to 75% by managing your hearing loss.
That is not a small number.
Nevertheless, it’s not really that surprising. That’s not to detract from the significance of the finding, of course, that sort of statistical connection between hearing loss treatment and the battle against dementia is noteworthy and shocking. But it aligns well with what we currently know: treating your hearing loss is essential to slowing dementia as you get older.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
You can’t always believe the content presented in scientific research because it can frequently be contradictory. The reasons for that are lengthy, varied, and not really that relevant to our topic here. Because here’s the bottom line: yet further proof, this research indicates neglected loss of hearing can lead to or worsen cognitive decline including dementia.
So for you personally, what does this indicate? In certain ways, it’s quite straight forward: you need to set up an appointment with us right away if you’ve noticed any hearing loss. And, if you require a hearing aid, you should absolutely begin using that hearing aid as directed.
Hearing Aids Assist in Preventing Dementia When You Use Them Regularly
Regrettably, when people are prescribed with hearing aids, they don’t always instantly get into the habit of using them. The often cited reasons why include:
- It’s difficult to understand voices. In many instances, it takes time for your brain to adapt to hearing voices again. There are things we can suggest, including reading along with an audiobook, that can help make this endeavor easier.
- The hearing aid doesn’t seem like it works the way it should. Many people need to have their settings adjusted, and calibration problems are definitely something that can be addressed by our hearing specialists.
- How hearing aids look concerns you. You’d be surprised at the wide variety of styles we have available now. Some styles are so subtle, you might not even notice them.
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel as if it fits well. If you are suffering from this problem, please contact us. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
Your future mental faculties and even your health as a whole are obviously affected by wearing hearing aids. We can help if you’re having difficulties with any of the above. Working with your hearing professional to make certain your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it demands time and patience.
And taking into consideration these new findings, managing your hearing loss is more significant than ever. Hearing aids are protecting your hearing health and your mental health so it’s vital to be serious about treatment.
What’s The Link Between Hearing Aids And Dementia?
So what’s the real connection between hearing loss and dementia? Social isolation is the prominent theory but experts are not 100% sure. When suffering from loss of hearing, some people seclude themselves socially. Another theory concerns sensory stimulation. Over the years, if a person loses sensory stimulation, such as hearing loss, the brain gets less activity which then results in mental decline.
Your hearing aid allows you to hear better. And that can help keep your brain active, creating a more robust natural safeguard against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why treating 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.