The connection between hearing loss and the brain is particularly concerning, as the effects of untreated hearing loss can be damaging to both physical and mental health. According to research, individuals with untreated hearing loss are more likely to suffer from accelerated cognitive decline than those who are receiving treatment. This may signify an increase in dementia risk, especially in older adults.
Hearing aids are one of the most important tools we have in compensating for mild hearing loss, moderate hearing loss, and even severe hearing impairment. But can wearing a hearing aid help decrease hearing loss as a risk factor for dementia?
At Hearing Unlimited, we believe the answer is a resounding 'yes!' Our audiologists have seen firsthand how using hearing aids can help reduce cognitive decline. Our team is dedicated to making it simple, accessible, and affordable for patients to get the hearing aids they need.
Here's what everyone should know about how hearing aids can help reduce cognitive decline:
Hearing Loss and Dementia: What's the Connection?
The connection between hearing loss and dementia is well established. Studies have found that people with untreated hearing loss are more likely to suffer from an increased risk (and accelerated rate) of cognitive decline than those without it. This suggests a strong link between hearing loss and dementia, especially in older adults.
People develop dementia when the connections between their neurons break down, slowing the electrical signals that carry information to and from the brain. This change in cognitive processes can lead to a decrease in memory, learning abilities, and communication abilities over time.
In a similar way, hearing loss weakens the neural connections in the auditory cortex, which is responsible for processing sound. This can lead to difficulty understanding speech and following conversations, especially when background noise is present.
When both of these breakdowns happen in tandem, it creates a vicious cycle that can quickly spiral into more serious cognitive decline. That's why it's so important to address hearing loss in its early stages before it has a chance to lead to dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or other cognitive issues.
How Treating Hearing Loss Helps
Hearing loss treatment is one of the most important steps we can take to reduce our risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Better hearing can:
- Prevent Social Isolation: People with hearing loss are more likely to suffer from social isolation, which can have a negative impact on mental health. By treating their hearing loss, we can help them stay socially engaged and connected.
- Help With Understanding Speech: Hearing loss makes it harder for people to process and understand speech, which can lead to cognitive decline over time. Treating hearing loss helps them better comprehend conversations, even in noisy environments.
- Improve Cognitive Function: Treating hearing problems at any level also helps improve cognitive function by restoring the neural connections in the auditory cortex, reducing one's risk of developing dementia.
Treating Hearing Loss With Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are the most common type of hearing loss treatment, and they can be extremely effective at reducing cognitive decline. According to research, hearing aid users regularly report a decrease in their risk of dementia and improved overall cognitive function.
Hearing aids reduce the need to strain to hear, allowing users to follow conversations more easily and understand speech more clearly. Hearing aid use also reduces cognitive load by making it easier for the brain to process sound without having to work as hard.
Visit Your Pittsburgh Hearing Aid Specialists
At Hearing Unlimited, our audiologists are here to help you get the treatment you need for hearing loss. We provide comprehensive diagnostics, hearing aid fittings, and follow-up care to ensure that your hearing aids are working properly.
Our team is committed to helping you reduce your risk of dementia and cognitive decline. We believe that everyone should have access to the best possible treatment for their hearing loss — and we'll work with you every step of the way.
Schedule an appointment with Hearing Unlimited today and let us help you find the hearing aids that fit your needs and lifestyle!
