Healthy Hearing Makes for a Healthy Mind – Audiology Associates

If you or a loved one is worried about memory loss then don’t put down this article until you have read it. Recent studies from Johns Hopkins and other sources show a direct correlation between hearing loss and both Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Hearing loss may not only exacerbate the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia, but may also be an important risk factor. For those who are not familiar with what Alzheimer’s disease is, it is generally defined as a deterioration of intellectual faculties such as memory and concentration.

Maintaining healthy hearing is vital for maintaining a healthy mind. When patients diagnosed with dementia were given hearing exams, they were found to also have a significant hearing loss. The worse the hearing loss, the worse the risk for Alzheimer’s as well. For every additional loss of 10 decibels of hearing capacity, Alzheimer’s risk appeared to go up by 20 percent, the researchers said. In addition, untreated hearing loss is linked to not only depression but also anxiety and social isolation. A significant portion of the brain is utilized in processing the auditory information received from the inner ear (Cochlea). Some people do crossword puzzles to stimulate the mind. That is not the only way. Input from hearing stimulates our brains to process and comprehend the world around us. Simple conversation with someone exercises significant and vital sections of the brain.
If you are concerned about Alzheimer’s or dementia, correcting your hearing loss may lessen the adverse effects of memory loss. It is important to know that many symptoms of hearing loss are similar to symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and results in difficulties in communication. Often hearing loss may go undetected because of these symptoms so it is important to get annual hearing exams.
Your hearing is an important investment for a quality life and we are here to help. If you or someone close to you is concerned with memory loss and have not had a recent hearing evaluation, please call Audiology Associates at (661) 284-1900 and speak with one of our qualified staff. Kevin Bolder, Au.D. and John Davis, Au.D. are available to answer any questions you may have. Please call us at 661.284.1900 or visit our website www.AudiologyAssociates.net. We are located at 25425 Orchard Village Road, Ste 220, Santa Clarita. We are Hearing Healthcare Excellence!