Can Hearing Aids help with onset of Dementia?

New study finds that Hearing Aids may help with onset of Dementia and other cognitive declines.

A newly published study in JAMA neurology offers insight that managing hearing loss may help reduce or delay the onset of cognitive decline, including symptoms of dementia. Research has long since established that hearing loss is one of many important factors in developing dementia, but until now very little has been done in the way of determining whether intervening with hearing loss would also reduce the progression of cognitive decline, according to Dr. Loh at National University Hospital and National University of Singapore. From a study of 3243 cases, in both observation and trial, the researchers looked at the association between hearing loss and cognitive decline over a range of durations from 2 to 25 years. The team was able to discover people with hearing loss and also wore hearing aids performed on average 3% better on cognitive scores on the short term. The use of hearing aids also contributed to a 19% reduction in long term cognitive decline, the study says. When it comes to cognitive decline, the most important treatment is preventative. Once you lose your cognitive abilities, they are gone permanently. Dr. Tan states that dementia is far easier to treat than it is to reverse, which is nothing less than a herculean task. It’s not an exaggeration to say that saying the hydra would possibly be easier than reversing cognitive decline. Once it’s goes, it’s nigh impossible to regain. In developed countries such as the United States, Canada, and Japan, hearing loss, while being a major risk factor for cognitive decline, is extremely easy to treat. It’s as simple as seeing a hearing specialist, or even your family doctor in some cases, and purchasing a set of hearing aids that is right for you. It is never too early to intervene.

The use of hearing aids also show benefits to those who have already begun to show a decline in cognitive abilities, the same research says. Even if you’ve missed being an early bird, you can still slow down the rate of cognitive decline. While hearing aids aren’t the only way of preventing cognitive decline, a well rounded approach is necessary. Other factors include a good diet, a healthy lifestyle, and stress reduction. If you believe you or your loved ones are experiencing any form of cognitive decline, speak with one of your audiologists at Evear Hearing Clinic and we’ll be happy to help you find the hearing aid that fits your life style.