Hearing loss isn’t just about missing conversations or needing to turn the volume up on the TV.
Recent scientific studies indicate a strong correlation between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. The team at Provincial Hearing, the trusted hearing care experts in Bridgewater, Truro, and Kentville, Nova Scotia, is committed to raising awareness about this significant health concern.
Unveiling the Link Between Untreated Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline
There’s now an overwhelming body of evidence suggesting that untreated hearing loss is directly linked to cognitive decline. Many of these studies are deeply researched and report the same alarming statistics.
If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of hearing loss and hasn’t yet had a hearing test or sought help, the data is truly worrisome.
The Largest Peer-Reviewed Study to Date
In December 2022, CNN Health shared findings from an extensive study on the connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. This worldwide trial, conducted by researchers for JAMA Neurology, included 31 studies with 137,484 participants spanning Europe, North America, Asia, and Australasia. The research examined the association between hearing loss and cognitive decline over durations ranging from two to 25 years.
Key Findings From the Study
The study yielded two significant findings:
- The use of hearing aids was associated with a 19 percent reduction in long-term cognitive decline. As the senior study author Dr. Benjamin Tan notes, "Dementia is far easier to prevent than treat, and exceedingly difficult to reverse."
- Encouragingly, patients who began with mild cognitive impairment (early dementia) also benefitted from hearing aids, showing about a 20 percent lower risk of progressing to dementia. This underscores that it's never too late to start using hearing aids, but early treatment may help preserve the most cognition.
The study concludes that the usage of hearing aids and cochlear implants is associated with a decreased risk of subsequent cognitive decline, urging physicians to encourage their patients with hearing loss to adopt such devices.
Taking Action: Regular Hearing Checks Are Critical
Just like regular dental checkups, eye exams, and annual physicals, a hearing test should be a part of your health maintenance routine. Despite the mounting evidence about the serious implications of untreated hearing loss, many people still don’t prioritize their hearing health.
A hearing test is simple, quick, and noninvasive. It helps you understand your level of hearing and ensures your hearing health is monitored, cared for, and prolonged where needed.
Contact Us for Hearing Assistance
If you or a loved one is concerned about your hearing, the team at Provincial Hearing is here to help. We currently have appointments available for new patients. Please call us in Truro at 1-888-897-1147, Bridgewater at 1-888-323-4111, or Kentville at 1-877-257-5525 to schedule a convenient date and time for your visit.
With untreated hearing loss potentially worsening cognitive decline, we encourage you not to delay seeking help.
