Connecting The Dots: A Look at Hearing Loss & Cognitive Decline

April 2, 2024

The link between hearing loss and cognitive decline might not be immediately obvious. For some, they seem worlds apart. However, it’s been shown that hearing loss is one of the biggest risk factors for cognitive decline. When we aren’t experiencing problems, we may not realize how big a role sound plays in our lives. From engaging in conversation to navigating unfamiliar spaces, what we hear is a crucial part of how we understand our world.

This blog will discuss the connection between the two and how you can protect your brain health. Taking action is the best thing you can do.

What’s the Link?

The effects of hearing loss on cognitive development have been studied in recent years. Elderly people with auditory loss are more likely to develop dementia, and they tend to experience quicker cognitive decline. According to these studies, hearing loss is responsible for 8% of dementia cases.

Some researchers think that the brain has to work harder to hear and fill in the blanks, and other memory and thought processes suffer as a result. Hearing loss can also cause the brain to shrink faster. When parts of the brain aren’t stimulated, they can actually get smaller. You have to engage those areas and challenge them to keep them active and healthy.

How You Can Protect Your Hearing & Brain

Keeping your brain healthy is essential to living a happy life. The most important thing is to focus on challenging yourself mentally. Spending time with family and friends or being active in your favorite hobby are some great ways to get started. However, your hearing can impact these activities, which is where hearing impairment aids come in. Overall, with the right support, you can continue to live a full life without the stress and frustration of struggling to hear.

Keep Your Brain & Ears Healthy With Forest Hills Audiology

Getting hearing aids does more than amplify your world. Prioritizing hearing loss treatment also helps keep your cognitive abilities strong. The connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline is a breakthrough for the world as a whole.

With more than 30 years of experience, we work with our clients to help them hear more clearly and return to effective communication as soon as possible. If you are struggling to hear, don’t leave it untreated – book a consultation at Forest Hills Audiology now.