Your brain can be helped by dealing with your loss of hearing. At least, that’s according to a new study from a University of Manchester study group. These researchers looked at a group of more than 2000 individuals over the course of nearly twenty years (1996 to 2014). The unexpected results? Managing your hearing loss can delay dementia by as much as 75%.
That’s a substantial number.
And yet, it’s not really that unexpected. That’s not to take away from the importance of the finding, of course, that kind of statistical connection between hearing loss treatment and the fight against dementia is noteworthy and stunning. But the insight we already have coordinates with these findings: treating your hearing loss is vital to slowing dementia as you get older.
What Does This Research on Dementia Mean For me?
You can’t always believe the content provided in scientific research because it can frequently be contradictory. The reasons for that are long, diverse, and not all that pertinent to our topic here. The bottom line is: this new study is yet further proof that suggests untreated hearing loss can result in or worsen mental decline including dementia.
So for you personally, what does this mean? In certain ways, it’s pretty simple: you should come see us right away if you’ve noticed any hearing loss. And, if you require a hearing aid, you need to definitely begin wearing that hearing aid as directed.
Hearing Aids Assist in Preventing Dementia When You Wear Them Regularly
Unfortunately, not everybody falls directly into the practice of using a prescribed pair of hearing aids. Some of the reasons why are:
- The hearing aid doesn’t feel 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.
- The hearing aid isn’t feeling like it fits comfortably. 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 appear. Presently, we have lots of models available which may amaze you. Some models are so discreet, you might not even notice them.
- It’s challenging to make out voices. In some instances, it takes time for your brain to adjust to hearing voices again. There are things we can suggest, like reading along with an audiobook, that can make this process go more smoothly.
Clearly using your hearing aids is crucial to your health and future mental faculties. If you’re trying to cope with any of the above, come see us for an adjustment. 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.
And taking into consideration these new findings, treating your hearing loss is more important than ever before. Hearing aids are safeguarding your hearing health and your mental health so it’s vital to be serious about treatment.
What’s The Link Between Dementia And Hearing Aids?
So why are these two health conditions loss of hearing and dementia even linked to begin with? Social solitude is the leading theory but experts are not completely certain. When dealing with hearing loss, some people seclude themselves socially. Sensory stimulation is the foundation of another theory. Over time, if a person loses sensory stimulation, such as hearing loss, the brain gets less activity which then results in cognitive decline.
Your hearing aid will help you hear better. And that can help keep your brain active, creating a more robust natural safeguard against dementia and cognitive decline. That’s why a connection between the two should not be unexpected and why hearing loss treatments can slow down dementia by up to 75%.
