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Dementia and Alzheimer's Linked To Untreated Hearing Loss
If staying sharp is on your wish list of things you'd like to maintain as you gracefully grow older, it is recommended that you get a hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist. Most experts agree that the most effective way to maintain cognitive function is by maintaining a healthy social network. We know that people with untreated hearing loss often disengage because it is simply too difficult for them to engage effectively in the give-and-take process of social interactions.
For people with hearing loss, the brain works overtime to translate signals and understand speech, especially in noisy environments such as restaurants, business meetings and social gatherings. It takes more time and more energy to reflect on the meaning of sounds, to remember the flow of a conversation and to respond before the conversation has moved on.
As hearing worsens, the hearing impaired individual is likely to become increasingly frustrated and socially isolated. Social isolation has been linked to depression and now there is another major risk associated with hearing problems dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
A hearing exam can quickly and painlessly pinpoint a hearing loss. With a wealth of sleek and stylish advanced technology hearing solutions that can address all degrees of hearing loss, there is no excuse for untreated hearing loss.
Many hearing aids can minimize the cognitive energy expended in typical listening environments without compromising sound quality and speech understanding. Speech understanding is enabled so that more cognitive energy is readily available to engage in day-to-day interactions.
Staying connected to modern life through today's high-tech communication and entertainment devices is another way that hearing impaired people maintain an active, vital lifestyle.
For more information on hearing loss, hearing exams and the latest hearing solutions, contact a licensed audiologist near you.
