What Is The Connection Between Hearing And Cognitive Decline?
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Doctor examined the patient's ear with Otoscope. Patient seem to have problems with hearing.
We don't hear with our ears — we actually hear with our brains. This means if you have hearing loss, the connections and areas of the brain that are associated with sound reorganize themselves. Because of that, research suggests that untreated hearing loss is linked to memory impairment and deteriorating cognitive function.
When you have hearing loss, your brain has to work harder just to understand what is being said. This often results in missing certain sounds and pitches and leaving you feeling exhausted after a conversation. Over time, this causes excessive stress on the brain, making it difficult to retain new information.
Studies have shown that individuals with hearing loss experience a faster rate in cognitive decline compared to those with "normal" hearing. Hearing loss is the No. 1 treatable sensory issue that contributes to cognitive diminishing, with vision being No. 2. This is why it's important to manage hearing loss and vision issues at the first signs to prevent and delay loss of cognitive function.
What You Can Do
The best way to preserve your cognitive abilities is to manage any hearing loss with hearing aids. Hearing aids will supply your brain with the proper amplification it needs to hear and process information. Hearing aids not only decrease your chances of developing dementia or Alzheimer's, but they also allow you to hear your friends and family again.
Make Your Appointment Today
Because our hearing is greatly connected to our cognitive abilities, it is important to understand the effects hearing loss can have on your overall life. If you or a loved one has hearing loss, then call us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation. It is best to catch any signs of hearing loss early before cognitive decline can occur. We want to help you live your best life full of better hearing.
