Did you know there is a connection between hearing loss and how well your brain works? It’s true. Multiple studies have been done showing a relationship between hearing loss and cognitive ability.
Hearing loss can be frustrating as it is, but imagine that on top of losing some of your brain function or even developing dementia. It can be a struggle for so many people, but there is help available at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey.
The Relationship Between Hearing Loss and Cognition
To date, there have been over 100 studies that have shown a correlation between hearing loss and cognitive impairment. In one John Hopkins study, it was shown that mild hearing loss actually doubled the risk for dementia, and moderate hearing loss tripled the risk. Another study found that amplification (like your find with hearing aids) could reduce the risk of cognitive impairment.
What is the reason behind this relationship? Those struggling with hearing loss put more demands on their brains and their cognitive abilities to understand the world around them. This increase in demand on the brain can eventually lead to issues with cognitive ability and can increase the risk for dementia.
Additionally, the function of the hearing center in the brain begins to atrophy or shrink as it’s not as stimulated as much as it once was.
On top of that, when you have hearing loss, you tend to avoid social situations. This can lead to social isolation and loneliness, which can also negatively affect your cognitive abilities.
More specifically, a 2013 study reported that hearing loss can result in both a cognitive and psycho-social decline due to increased demand on the brain, which can result in mental fatigue. It can also lead to less focus, worse attention span, and poor memory. Hearing loss can negatively affect your whole cognitive system.
Another study in 2020 found that of the twelve modifiable risk factors for dementia they discovered, untreated hearing loss was the most significant. A more recent 2023 study found that because of this connection between untreated hearing loss and cognition impairment, there was an urgent need to address hearing loss in order to more effectively address cognitive decline.
Can Hearing Aids Help?
At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we understand the connection between hearing loss and cognition, and it’s one of the many reasons why we work to ensure everyone has the right hearing aids for their cognitive needs.
Hearing loss is the top modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline, and because of that, it could not be more important to receive a customized treatment program that focuses on the relationship between your cognition and your ability to hear. By decreasing your struggle to hear, you also decrease the risk of dementia and other cognitive issues.
At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we offer our proprietary H.E.A.R MethodTM Treatment Program to ensure you no longer struggle with your hearing and, in turn, lower your risk of cognitive decline. We’ll customize a treatment program for your symptoms and ensure you never say “what” again – guaranteed.
Schedule A Consultation
Are you ready to finally address your hearing loss? Whether you’re young and think you can’t possibly be struggling with hearing loss or you’re older and think it’s a natural part of aging, schedule a consultation with Hearing Doctors of New Jersey today. Hearing loss can affect anyone, and with a comprehensive hearing exam, we can ensure you’re able to hear everything around you.
Call our Livingston, NJ office today at 973-577-4100 or use our online contact form.
