Your brain can be benefited by treating your loss of hearing. At least, that’s according to a new study out of a University of Manchester research group. These analysts considered a team of more than 2000 individuals over the course of almost twenty years (1996 to 2014). The outstanding findings? Dementia can be delayed by up to 75% by treating hearing loss.
That’s a substantial figure.
Nevertheless, it’s not all that unexpected. The importance of the finding, of course, is still useful, that kind of statistical relationship between hearing loss treatment and the battle against dementia is important and stunning. But it aligns well with what we already know: as you get older, it’s crucial to treat your hearing loss if you want to hold off dementia.
What Does This Research on Dementia Mean For me?
You can’t always rely on the information presented in scientific studies because it can commonly be inconsistent. The causes for that are long, varied, and not all that pertinent to our discussion here. Because here’s the main point: this new research is yet further proof that reveals neglected 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 right away if you’ve observed any loss of hearing. And you really should start using that hearing aid as directed if you find out you require one.
When You Use Them Correctly, Hearing Aids Can Help Prevent Dementia
Regrettably, not everybody falls directly into the habit of using a prescribed pair of hearing aids. The usual reasons why include:
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel like it fits properly. If you are experiencing this issue, please give us a call. We can help make it fit better.
- Peoples voices are difficult to understand. In many instances, it takes time for your brain to adapt to recognizing voices again. We can recommend things to do to help make this endeavor easier, such as reading along with an audiobook.
- 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.
- You’re worried about how hearing aids look. You’d be surprised at the assortment of styles we have available currently. Some models are so discreet, you may not even notice them.
Your future mental faculties and even your health in general are undoubtedly affected by using 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 requires time and patience.
It’s more significant than ever to deal with your loss of hearing specifically taking into consideration the new evidence. Hearing aids are safeguarding your hearing health and your mental health so it’s important to be serious about treatment.
What’s The Link Between Hearing Aids And Dementia?
So what’s the actual link between hearing loss and dementia? Social isolation is the leading theory but scientists are not completely sure. When coping with loss of hearing, some people hide themselves away socially. A different theory concerns sensory stimulation. All senses trigger activity in the brain, and some researchers theorize that the loss of stimulation can lead to cognitive decline over time.
You hear better with a hearing aid. Supplying a natural safeguard for your brain against cognitive decline and helping to keep your brain active. That’s why a connection between the two should not be surprising and why hearing loss treatments can delay dementia by up to 75%.