The link between Hearing Loss and Dementia
Did you know... Your ears and your brain work as a team?
Our ability to hear and process auditory information is part of the cognitive process. But what happens when people begin to lose their hearing as they get older?
As we grow older, our bodies go through various changes that can have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. Among these changes, hearing loss is a common and often overlooked issue.
Although it is difficult for some to accept, studies have shown that people with hearing loss lose cognitive function much faster than those without it.
What is Dementia and how can it affect met?
Dementia is not one disease but an umbrella term for various diseases that affect the brain. Each person affected by Dementia might experience different symptoms; which might include:
Changes in short-term memory.
Difficulty concentrating and focusing.
Finding it hard to carry out everyday routine tasks.
Increased difficulty to recall words to speak, write, or understand complex instructions.
Increased withdrawal from social activities.
Rapid changes in mood or reactions.
How does hearing loss relate to dementia?
Hearing loss and dementia are closely linked, with increasing research indicating that not addressing hearing loss can significantly raise the risk of cognitive decline.
When hearing loss occurs, the brain must work harder to interpret sounds, which can reduce the resources it has for memory and thought processes. Over time, this extra cognitive strain may lead to a decline in cognitive function.
Several studies have found that hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia
There is a strong connection between hearing loss and dementia. Research shows that people who experience hearing loss in are up to five times more likely to develop dementia later in life compared to those with normal hearing.
There is evidence to show that:
- Hearing is an essential part of brain health
- Mild hearing loss doubles the risk of developing dementia
- Moderate hearing loss leads to three times the risk
- Severe hearing loss increases the risk five times.
Adults with hearing loss develop a significant impairment in their cognitive abilities, 3.2 years sooner than those with normal hearing,
People with hearing loss may see a 30% to 40% decline in thinking abilities compared to those without hearing loss.
Hearing aids can reduce the risk of dementia
Although the ears convert sound waves into electrical signals, it is the brain that interprets these signals and enables us to hear and comprehend sounds. The brain regions responsible for this process may be impacted in the early stages of dementia, resulting in hearing difficulties that could potentially serve as an early indication of the disease.
However, the use of hearing aids was shown to mitigate the effects of hearing loss by 50% and may play a crucial role in slowing down the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Importance of having your hearing checked.
Untreated hearing loss can have a profound effect on your relationships with loved ones, family, and friends. Regular hearing screenings as part of routine check-ups are crucial to detect and address hearing issues before they escalate.
How can we help?
If you have hearing difficulties, schedule an appointment at your nearest Ear Institute for diagnosis and treatment. Our skilled audiologists will determine the type, cause, and degree of your hearing loss and develop a personalised treatment plan to improve your hearing.
Request an appointment at your nearest Ear Institute today!