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 researchers out of the University of Manchester. Over the period of around 20 years (1996 to 2014), nearly 2000 individuals were looked at by these scientists. The outstanding conclusions? Dementia can be delayed by up to 75% by dealing with loss of hearing.
That’s a substantial number.
But is it actually that surprising? That’s not to take away from the significance of the finding, of course, that sort of statistical correlation between hearing loss treatment and the struggle against dementia is noteworthy and eye-popping. But the information we already have coordinates with these findings: treating your loss of hearing is essential to slowing dementia as you get older.
What Does This Research on Dementia Mean For me?
You can’t always rely on the content provided in scientific studies because it can commonly be contradictory. The causes for that are lengthy, diverse, and not really that pertinent to our topic here. Because here’s the bottom line: yet further proof, this research reveals untreated hearing loss can lead to or worsen cognitive decline including dementia.
So what does this mean for you? It’s very simple in several ways: you need to set up an appointment with us immediately if you’ve observed any loss of hearing. And, if you require a hearing aid, you should definitely begin wearing that hearing aid as directed.
Hearing Aids Assist in Preventing Dementia When You Wear Them Correctly
Sadly, when most people are prescribed with hearing aids, they don’t always immediately get into the habit of wearing them. Some of the reasons why are:
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel as if it fits well. If you are experiencing this problem, please give us a call. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
- You’re worried about how hearing aids look. These days, we have lots of types available which may amaze you. Some styles are so subtle, you may not even notice them.
- It’s hard to make out voices. In many situations, it takes time for your brain to adapt to recognizing voices again. We can suggest things to do to help make this process go more smoothly, such as reading along with a book recording.
- The way that the hearing aid is advertised to work, doesn’t appear to be the way it’s currently working. 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 important to your health and future mental abilities. We can help if you’re struggling with any of the above. Consulting your hearing specialist to make certain your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it calls for time and patience.
And taking into consideration these new findings, treating your hearing loss is more significant than ever. Be serious about the treatment because hearing aids are defending your hearing and your mental health.
Dementia And Hearing Aids, What’s The Connection?, What’s The Relationship?
So what’s the actual link between loss of hearing and dementia? Experts themselves aren’t exactly sure, but some theories are related to social isolation. When dealing with hearing loss, some people seclude themselves socially. Sensory stimulation is the basis of another theory. In time, if a person loses sensory stimulation, such as hearing loss, the brain gets less activity which then results in mental decline.
You hear better with a hearing aid. And that can help keep your brain active, offering a more robust natural defense against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why taking care of hearing loss can slow dementia by up to 75% percent and why it shouldn’t be surprising that there is a link between the two.