Hearing loss is generally accepted as simply a normal part of the aging process: as we get older, we begin to hear things a little less clearly. Maybe we need to ask people to speak up or repeat themselves when they talk. Maybe the volume on our TV keeps getting louder. We may even discover that we’re becoming forgetful.
Memory loss is also typically considered a natural part of aging as dementia and Alzheimer’s are much more widespread in the senior citizen population than in the general population at large. But what if the two were in some way related? And, even better, what if there was a way to treat hearing loss and also maintain your memories and mental health?
Hearing loss and cognitive decline
Most individuals do not connect hearing loss with cognitive decline and dementia. But if you look in the appropriate places, you will discover a clear connection: studies show that there is a significant risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-like conditions if you also suffer from hearing loss – even at fairly low levels of hearing impairment.
Individuals who have hearing loss also frequently have mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Your ability to socialize is affected by cognitive decline, mental health problems, and hearing loss which is the common thread.
Why does hearing loss impact cognitive decline?
There is a connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, and though there’s no solid proof that there is a direct cause and effect association, experts are exploring some compelling clues. They have identified two main situations that they believe result in problems: the inability to socialize and your brain working overtime.
Many studies show that solitude leads to anxiety and depression. And people aren’t as likely to socialize with other people when they cope with hearing loss. Many people who suffered from hearing loss find it’s too hard to participate in conversations or can’t hear well enough to enjoy things like the movie theater. Mental health problems can be the outcome of this path of isolation.
Studies have also revealed that when somebody has hearing impairment, the brain has to work extra hard to make up for the diminished stimulation. Ultimately, the part of the brain responsible for other tasks, like remembering, has to use some of its resources to help the part of the brain responsible for hearing. Cognitive decline will then progress faster than normal as the overworked brain strains to keep up.
How to stop cognitive decline with hearing aids
The first line of defense against mental health issues and cognitive decline is hearing aids. Research shows that people improved their cognitive functions and were at a lower risk of developing dementia when they used hearing aids to combat their hearing loss.
We would see fewer cases of cognitive decline and mental health problems if more individuals would just wear their hearing aids. Between 15% and 30% of individuals who require hearing aids actually use them, which accounts for between 4.5 million and 9 million people. Almost 50 million individuals cope with dementia according to the World Health Organization estimates. If hearing aids can lower that number by even just a couple of million people, the quality of life for many individuals and families will be exponentially improved.
Are you ready to improve your hearing and protect your memory at the same time? Contact us today and make an appointment for a consultation to learn whether hearing aids are right for you and start moving toward better mental health.
References
https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/blogs/protecting-your-hearing-means-protecting-your-mental-health
