For people who have memory problems or poor organizational skills, purchasing a day planner from Magic City Books may help. But for people who are experiencing cognitive decline or dementia, medical intervention is necessary. Research shows that hearing aids can actually prevent or delay cognitive decline.
The Link Between Hearing Loss & Dementia
Hearing loss is extremely common among older adults. As many as one in three adults ages 65 to 74 experiences hearing loss, and for those ages 75 and older, the number jumps to one in two.
This is especially alarming when you learn about the strong link between hearing loss and dementia. According to research by Johns Hopkins University, those with mild hearing loss have two times the risk of developing hearing loss compared to those with normal hearing, those with moderate hearing loss have three times the risk and those with severe hearing loss have five times the risk.
The good news is, this risk factor for dementia is a modifiable one, which means that early treatment can prevent or delay this form of cognitive decline.
One Promising Study
According to researchers at the University of Melbourne, wearing hearing aids can improve cognitive function.
The researchers worked with nearly 100 adults ages 62 to 82 who suffered from hearing loss. At the beginning of the study, the researchers assessed the participants’:
- Hearing
- Cognitive function
- Speech perception
- Quality of life
- Physical activity
- Loneliness
- Mood
- Medical health
The participants were reassessed in these areas after 18 months of hearing aid usage.
Study Results
After the 18-month period, the participants’ speech perception, listening ability and quality of life had significantly improved. In 97.3% of participants, there was also clinically significant improvement in executive function. This refers to the ability to plan, organize information and initiate tasks.
Among the female group, there was also significant improvement in working memory and most other cognitive functions. This is likely because the women were more diligent about wearing their devices than the male group.
Next Steps
According to Chief Investigator of the study Julia Sarant, “This research is a positive step in investigating the treatment of hearing aids to delay cognitive decline… Further research is underway to compare cognitive outcomes from a larger sample size with those of a healthy aging comparison group of older Australians with typical hearing for their age.” To learn more about the link between hearing loss and dementia or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call Eastern Oklahoma Ear Nose and Throat – Yale Office today.