Illini Hearing - Champaign and Mahomet, IL

Woman with hearing loss gets hearing aid to slow down her dementia and completes a puzzle.

Your brain can be benefited by taking care of your loss of hearing. At least, that’s according to a new study by a group of analysts out of the University of Manchester. Over the period of about 20 years (1996 to 2014), nearly 2000 individuals were examined by these analysts. The unexpected results? Dealing with your loss of hearing can slow dementia by up to 75%.

That’s a substantial number.

But is it really that surprising? The importance of the finding, of course, is still useful, that sort of statistical connection between hearing loss treatment and the battle against dementia is important and eye-popping. But it coordinates well with what we currently know: as you get older, it’s essential to treat your hearing loss if you want to hold off cognitive decline.

What Does This Research on Dementia Mean For me?

Scientific studies can be confusing and contradictory (should I eat eggs, shouldn’t I eat eggs? What about wine? Will drinking wine help me live longer?). The causes for that are long, diverse, and not very pertinent to our discussion here. Because here’s the main point: this new study is yet further proof that implies neglected loss of hearing can result in or worsen cognitive decline including dementia.

So what does this indicate for you? It’s very simple in many ways: you need to set up an appointment with us as soon as possible if you’ve noticed any hearing loss. And you should start using that hearing aid as directed if you discover you require one.

When You Wear Them Regularly, Hearing Aids Can Counter Dementia

Regrettably, not everyone falls directly into the habit of using a prescribed pair of hearing aids. Some of the reasons why are:

  • The hearing aid isn’t feeling as if it fits perfectly. If you are experiencing this issue, please get in touch with us. They can fit better and we’re here to help.
  • The way that the hearing aid is advertised to work, doesn’t seem to be the way it’s currently working. Many people need to have their settings adjusted, and calibration problems are definitely something that can be addressed by our hearing specialists.
  • The way hearing aids look concerns you. Nowadays, we have lots of variations available which might amaze you. Some models are so discreet, you might not even see them.
  • It’s challenging to make out voices. In many cases, it takes time for your brain to adjust to recognizing voices again. We can suggest things to do to help make this process easier, such as reading along with an audiobook.

Your future cognitive abilities and even your health in general are clearly impacted by using hearing aids. If you’re having difficulties with any of the above, get in touch with us for an adjustment. Working with your hearing professional to make sure your hearing aids are working for you is just part of the process and it requires time and patience.

And in light of these new findings, dealing with your hearing loss is more important than ever before. Hearing aids are defending your hearing health and your mental health so it’s vital to be serious about treatment.

Hearing Aids And Dementia, What’s The Relationship?

So what’s the actual link between hearing loss and dementia? Analysts themselves aren’t completely sure, but some theories are related to social isolation. Some people, when faced with hearing loss, become less socially active. A different theory refers to sensory stimulation. All senses generate activity in the brain, and some scientists theorize that losing stimulation can lead to cognitive decline over time.

Your hearing aid allows you to hear better. Offering a natural defense for your brain against cognitive decline and helping to keep your brain active. That’s why a link between the two shouldn’t be unexpected and why hearing loss treatments can slow down dementia by up to 75%.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
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