Treating your hearing loss can be helpful for your brain. At least, that’s according to a new study out of a University of Manchester study team. Over the period of around 20 years (1996 to 2014), nearly 2000 individuals were studied by these investigators. The unexpected results? Dementia can be slowed by up to 75% by dealing with hearing loss.
That’s a substantial number.
But still, it’s not all all that surprising. The importance of the finding, of course, is still relevant, that kind of statistical connection between hearing loss treatment and the battle against dementia is important and eye-popping. But the information we already have aligns well with these findings: as you age, it’s essential to treat your loss of hearing if you want to hold off dementia.
What Does This Research on Dementia Mean For me?
You can’t always trust the content presented in scientific research because it can commonly be inconsistent. There are lots of unrelated reasons for this. The main point here is: this new research is yet another piece of evidence that reveals neglected hearing loss can lead to or worsen cognitive decline including dementia.
So for you personally, what does this imply? It’s straightforward in some ways: if you’ve observed any potential signs of hearing loss, come see us as soon as you can. And you need to start using that hearing aid as directed if you find out you need one.
When You Use Them Regularly, Hearing Aids Can Forestall Dementia
Sadly, not everybody falls right into the habit of wearing a prescribed pair of hearing aids. The usual reasons why include:
- Peoples voices are difficult to understand. Your brain doesn’t always immediately adjust to understanding voices. There are things we can suggest, including reading along with an audiobook, that can make this situation easier.
- The hearing aid isn’t feeling as if it fits very well. If you are experiencing this problem, please get in touch with us. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
- You’re worried about how hearing aids look. You’d be amazed at the range of models we have available currently. Some models are so discreet, you might not even notice them.
- 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.
Your future mental abilities and even your overall health are clearly impacted by wearing hearing aids. We can help if you’re struggling with any of the above. Working with your hearing expert to make sure your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it calls for time and patience.
It’s more important than ever to deal with your hearing loss specifically in the light of the new findings. Hearing aids are defending your hearing health and your mental health so it’s important to take that treatment seriously.
What’s The Connection Between Hearing Aids And Dementia?
So what’s the real connection between loss of hearing and dementia? Scientists themselves aren’t completely certain, but some theories are related to social isolation. Many people, when faced with hearing loss, become less socially active. A different theory relates to sensory stimulation. All senses generate activity in the brain, and some experts theorize that the loss of stimulation can cause cognitive decline over a period of time.
Your hearing aid will help you hear better. Providing a natural defense for your brain against cognitive decline and helping to keep your brain active. That’s why a connection between the two shouldn’t be surprising and why hearing loss treatments can slow down dementia by as much as 75%.