Your brain can be benefited by treating your loss of hearing. At least, that’s according to a new study from a University of Manchester study group. These analysts considered a team of more than 2000 participants over the course of approximately 2 decades (1996 to 2014). The striking results? Managing your hearing loss can slow dementia by up to 75%.
That’s a considerable number.
But still, it’s not really that surprising. That’s not to take away from the weight of the finding, of course, this is an important statistical correlation between the battle against cognitive decline and the treatment of hearing loss. But it coordinates well with what we already know: treating your hearing loss is imperative to slowing cognitive decline as you get older.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
Scientific studies can be confusing and contradictory (should I eat eggs, shouldn’t I eat eggs? What about wine? Will that help me live longer?). There are countless unrelated reasons for this. The main point here is: this new study is yet further proof that implies neglected hearing loss can lead to or worsen mental decline including dementia.
So what does this indicate for you? In certain ways, it’s quite simple: if you’ve observed any potential indications of hearing loss, come see us as soon as you can. And, if you require a hearing aid, you should definitely start using that hearing aid as directed.
Hearing Aids Assist in Preventing Dementia When You Use Them Correctly
Regrettably, when 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 isn’t feeling like it fits well. If you are suffering from this problem, please let us know. We can help make it fit better.
- The way hearing aids look concerns you. You’d be surprised at the wide variety of designs we have available now. Also, many hearing aid models are manufactured to be very discreet.
- Peoples voices are difficult to understand. In some cases, it takes time for your brain to adapt to recognizing voices again. There are some things we can recommend, such as reading along with an audiobook, that can help make this situation easier.
- 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.
Obviously wearing your hearing aids is essential to your health and future mental faculties. If you’re having difficulties with any of the above, come see us for an adjustment. Quite often the solution will take time or patience, but consulting your hearing specialist to make sure your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process.
And in light of these new findings, dealing with your hearing loss is more important than it ever has been. Hearing aids are protecting your hearing health and your mental health so it’s crucial to be serious about treatment.
What’s The Connection Between Dementia And Hearing Aids?
So why are these two health conditions hearing loss and dementia even connected in the first place? Analysts themselves aren’t exactly sure, but some theories are associated with social isolation. Some people, when faced with loss of hearing, become less socially involved. Sensory stimulation is the foundation of another theory. All senses generate activity in the brain, and some experts theorize that losing stimulation can result in cognitive decline over a period of time.
Your hearing aid helps you hear better. Delivering a natural safeguard for your brain against cognitive decline and helping to keep your brain active. That’s why a relationship between the two should not be unexpected and why hearing loss treatments can slow down dementia by as much as 75%.