Are you finding the need to turn the TV up louder for a senior you love? Speaking more loudly? Repeating things the senior missed hearing the first time? Hearing loss in seniors isn’t uncommon. But new research is pointing to a startling link between hearing loss and an increased risk for dementia.
How Hearing and Cognitive Functioning Are Linked
There are several hypotheses scientists are exploring to explain the link between hearing loss and dementia. Below are a couple of leading theories:
- The brain’s memory and thinking systems are impacted when it has to work harder to strain to hear and to fill in the gaps when communication is missed.
- An older brain shrinks more rapidly as the result of hearing loss.
- Less social interaction leads to less intellectual stimulation and a less active and engaged brain.
It’s important to pinpoint the reason behind this connection and to explore if treating hearing loss can help prevent or slow the development to dementia. The number of individuals who may be impacted is astounding, with as many as 37.5 million Americans currently experiencing some degree of hearing loss.
We already know that seniors with age-related hearing loss experience a decline in cognitive functioning at a rate of 30 – 40% faster than those with normal hearing. In addition, hearing loss also increases the risk for additional health problems, such as depression and falls.
The good news is that researchers at Johns Hopkins are currently working to determine if treating hearing loss might actually reduce brain aging and prevent dementia. A study of almost 1,000 seniors with hearing loss is underway, and by as early as next year, we’ll have the information needed for a path forward.
If someone you love struggles with age-related hearing loss, encourage them to visit their physician regularly and to wear hearing aids if recommended by their physician. Our caregivers can even provide transportation for any appointments and outings if needed.
Additionally, our dementia care specialists are on hand to help those with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia to stay safe, comfortable, and engaged in enjoyable and meaningful activities. We can also help to effectively manage some of the challenging behaviors associated with dementia, such as aggression, agitation, wandering, sundowning, and more.
Contact the senior care experts at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care at (630) 323-4665 to learn more about how we can help seniors live healthier lives at home with personalized dementia care in Oak Brook and surrounding areas. We offer a free in-home consultation to answer all of your questions and to develop a customized plan of care to best meet your needs.