June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness MonthHearing loss is extremely frustrating for those who struggle with it, and this is also true for their loved ones. We often view hearing loss as one dimensional and solely a condition that affects our ears and our hearing, however the extent of the impact hearing loss can have on our bodies is much more then we might be aware of.*Research has revealed a link between hearing loss and cognitive disorders such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In a study by John Hopkins that tracked 639 adults for nearly 12 years it was found that hearing loss can have an impact on how susceptible we are to these diseases. Individuals with mild hearing loss doubled their risk of dementia, moderate hearing loss tripled the risk and people with severe hearing loss were five times more likely to develop dementia.
According to a report by the *Lancet Commission that uncovered similar findings, this increased risk could be due to the fact hearing loss leads to lowered mental stimulation, isolation and eventually, cognitive decline.At the Hearing Clinic UK, we understand first-hand the effect hearing loss can have. Many of our patients have told us how their hearing loss led them to ignoring calls, cancelling plans and intense feelings of isolation. This led them to feeling old before their time and in some cases even led to depression.
It’s important to note the signs of hearing loss as it often develops gradually and you may not notice the signs for some time, you can find more info here.
The results of these studies further the belief that you should not wait to get your hearing checked or ignore a loss. The average person waits between 7 and 10 years from the onset of hearing loss to get their hearing checked, this can have a devastating impact on your mental health but also on the level of clarity you can achieve when you eventually do decide to take care of your hearing health.
Hearing loss does not mean your life is over nor does it mean you cannot experience life to the fullest once more, today’s technology ensures you the best quality of life and we are here to make sure you get to experience that.
A massive breakthrough in dementia research is that hearing aids have been shown to protect against cognitive decline by keeping the brain actively engaged by processing sound. This ensures your brain is mentally stimulated and keeps you aware of the world around you.Restoring your hearing with the help of a hearing aid allows you to maintain an active and varied social life, keeps your brain busy and by extension can help prevent dementia and cognitive decline.
If you or someone you love is struggling with hearing loss visit us at the Hearing Clinic UK today and change your life through better hearing.
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