There are several studies published that connect untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline, dementia, and social isolation. These studies can be concerning and sometimes eye-opening for those with hearing impairments who don’t realize how life-changing even a slight hearing loss can be.
Hearing loss is not only normal, but it’s becoming increasingly common; personal headphones, loud concerts, and even chatty offices can damage our hearing. We don’t see hearing loss as a negative sign, but rather a sign that you’ve had a fun, busy life!
However, untreated hearing loss will continue to get worse with prolonged procrastination, until it starts to affect other parts of your body, too.
If you’re reading this and you’re concerned about your—or a loved one’s—hearing loss but haven’t thought about treating it, read on. There are some worrisome statistics published that may give you the wake-up call you’ve been looking for.
What the Studies Show
A recent study from Johns Hopkins University examined almost one thousand adults, studying their rate of cognitive decline over three years. About half of the participants received hearing aids and audiological treatment, while the other half were assigned to a health education program. Both received follow-up examinations every six months.
Participants who received and wore the hearing aids reported incredible improvement in communication abilities over the course of the study—and an almost 50 percent reduction in the rate of cognitive decline, in comparison to participants in the health education program.
A quote from head researcher Dr. Frank Lin really caught my eye here: “Hearing loss is very treatable in later life, which makes it an important public health target to reduce risk of cognitive decline and dementia.”
While this is just one study out of dozens that connect hearing loss to increased rates of depression, social isolation, falling and body frailty, and cognitive decline, the numbers don’t sugarcoat the fact that taking care of your hearing health can vastly improve multiple other aspects of your holistic health at the same time.
It’s crucial to get your hearing loss treated sooner rather than later, for not just better hearing, but a better quality of life.
How Audicles Hearing Services Can Help
Regular comprehensive hearing assessments and caring for your hearing can exponentially improve your communication skills, your cognitive abilities and, of course, your hearing. Our team is more than happy to help you on the first steps of your journey to improved hearing health.
If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to request a callback; our team of hearing experts is ready and willing to help you with answers to any questions you may have. You can also call our San Antonio office at (210) 820-0525 to schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the way toward better hearing health.
