Treating Your Hearing Loss to Help Prevent Cognitive Decline
Hearing loss and cognitive decline are common conditions that affect millions of people around the world. But did you know, they are related?
Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, noise exposure, and certain medical conditions. Cognitive decline is primarily caused by aging and other risk factors include family history, physical inactivity, and disease/conditions.
While both hearing loss and cognitive decline can be a frustrating and isolating experience, according to several medical studies, hearing loss and cognitive are directly related in two ways:
- People who suffer from untreated hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia over those with normal hearing.
- Treating your hearing loss may likely slow the progression of mental decline.
Conversely of the study participants who had moderate to severe hearing loss, there was a 32 percent lower prevalence of dementia amongst those who wore hearing aids.
Why Are Hearing Loss and Dementia Related?
There are a few possible explanations for the link between hearing loss and dementia. One theory is that hearing loss can lead to social isolation, which can increase the risk of dementia. When people with hearing loss have difficulty understanding speech, they may withdraw from social activities and interactions. This can lead to loneliness, depression, and a decline in cognitive function.
Another theory is that hearing loss can directly damage the brain. When the brain is deprived of auditory stimulation, it may not function as efficiently. This can lead to changes in brain structure and function, which can increase the risk of dementia.
There is strong evidence to support the notion that treating hearing loss can help stave off mental decline. In one study, people with hearing loss who used hearing aids for 3 years showed a slower rate of cognitive decline than those who did not use hearing aids.
Another study found that people with hearing loss who received cochlear implants showed improvements in cognitive function, including memory, attention, and processing speed.
Tips to Slow the Progression of Cognitive Decline
Getting older is inevitable. Here are some tips for protecting your cognitive health:
- Stay mentally active. Challenge your mind with puzzles, games, and other activities that require thinking.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep is essential for cognitive function.
- Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet provides your brain with the nutrients it needs to function properly.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise helps to keep your brain healthy and sharp.
- Manage stress. Stress can contribute to cognitive decline. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your mind sharp and reduce your risk of dementia.
Treating Hearing Loss
If you have hearing loss, there are a number of treatment options available. Hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss. They amplify sound, making it easier for you to hear. Other treatment options include cochlear implants, which can provide more hearing than hearing aids.
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Happy Patients
Hear Well. Live Well.
“My life is changed forever with my new Phonak Paradise hearing aids. I’m so proud and thankful that I tell everyone I meet how wonderful it is to hear paper rustling and my own footsteps on the floor again. It is a miracle and a blessing. Thank you Adam Dipuccio and doctors at AHG for my new life!!!”
“We want to thank Dr. Johnson and the staff at the South Scottsdale office for their prompt service. When I had a problem with one of my hearing aids, they saw me within an hour of my call to their office, and resolved the problem in a few minutes. We appreciate a business that is so helpful and caring.”
“Dr. Johnson did a wonderful job evaluating what would work for me. He is very pleasant, listens to the needs of the patient, answers all questions, and makes you feel very comfortable. I have been helped with hearing aids for both my tinnitus and hearing loss. Don’t hesitate to go see Dr. Johnson if you are in need… He is the best in the business!”
“I had a hearing aid quit on me. I went into the Mesa location and was greeted by a pleasant young lady and was promptly helped to get my hearing aid working again. And there was no charge !! Great service and pleasant staff. What a great experience !!”
“I have been using AHG for several years and they have been just great to work with. I get the hearing devices I need and they are well taken care of by AHG while I own them. Gary is a great audiologist and the receptionist is always helpful, friendly and available. Try them, you’ll like them.”
“We do not know how to thank you for the amazing professionalism and compassion you demonstrated to our family recently in addressing the hearing loss of my wife. Your kindness far exceeded your obligation as an Audiologist to provide competent professional care and we are very grateful. We were so fortunate to find you.”