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 team. These researchers considered a group of around 2000 individuals over a time period of nearly 2 decades (1996 to 2014). The striking results? Dementia can be slowed by up to 75% by managing your loss of hearing.
That’s a substantial number.
But is it really that surprising? The significance of the finding, of course, is still relevant, this is an important statistical correlation between the battle against dementia and the treatment of hearing loss. But it coordinates well with what we currently know: treating your loss of hearing is vital to slowing dementia as you get older.
How am I Impacted by This Research?
Scientific studies can be confusing and inconsistent (should I eat eggs, shouldn’t I eat eggs? What about wine? Will drinking wine help me live longer?). There are lots of unrelated reasons for this. The main point here is: this new study is yet further proof that indicates untreated loss of hearing can result in or worsen mental decline including dementia.
So for you personally, what does this indicate? It’s very simple in several ways: if you’ve noticed any possible signs of hearing loss, schedule an appointment with us soon. And you really should begin using that hearing aid as advised if you find out you require one.
When You Use Them Correctly, Hearing Aids Can Help Counter Dementia
Sadly, not everyone falls right into the habit of wearing a prescribed pair of hearing aids. The often cited reasons why include:
- 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 concerned about how hearing aids appear. These days, we have lots of styles available which may amaze you. Plus, many hearing aid styles are designed to be very discreet.
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel like it fits comfortably. If you are suffering from this issue, please give us a call. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
- Peoples voices are difficult to make out. Your brain doesn’t always immediately adjust to understanding voices. There are some things we can suggest, like reading along with an audiobook, that can make this process go more smoothly.
Your future cognitive abilities and even your health as a whole are obviously affected by wearing hearing aids. If you’re trying to cope with any of the above, get in touch with us for an adjustment. Quite often the answer will take patience and time, but consulting your hearing specialist to make sure your hearing aids are working for you is a part of the process.
It’s more important than ever to take care of your loss of hearing particularly in the light of the new evidence. Hearing aids are protecting your hearing health and your mental health so it’s vital to be serious about treatment.
What’s The Connection Between Hearing Aids And Dementia?
So why are these two conditions hearing loss and dementia even associated in the first place? Experts themselves aren’t completely certain, but some theories are related to social isolation. When dealing with loss of hearing, some people isolate themselves socially. Sensory stimulation is the basis of another theory. All senses trigger activity in the brain, and some scientists theorize that losing stimulation can result in cognitive decline over time.
Your hearing aid allows you to hear better. And that can help keep your brain active, offering a more effective natural safeguard against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why a connection between the two shouldn’t be unexpected and why hearing loss treatments can delay dementia by up to 75%.