A new study suggests wearing a hearing aid helps slow down cognitive impairment in seniors with hearing loss. It is well known that hearing loss is tied to mental decline. Thus, preserving or maintaining hearing health can help maintain a strong mind. Researcher Dr. Anil Lalwani said, “We know that hearing aids can keep older adults with hearing loss more socially engaged by providing an important bridge to the outside world. In this study, we wanted to determine if they could also slow the effects of aging on cognitive function.”
The study looked at adults aged 80 to 99 with hearing loss. Thirty-four of the participants regularly used hearing aids, and they scored higher on mental function tests compared to those without hearing aids. Furthermore, cognitive function was directly associated with a person’s ability to hear even without hearing aids.
Lalwani explained, “Our study suggests that using a hearing aid may offer a simple, yet important, way to prevent or slow the development of dementia by keeping adults with hearing loss engaged in conversation and communication.”
Over half of those over the age of 75 suffer hearing loss, and yet only 15 percent wear hearing aid devices.
Previous research has also found that seniors living with hearing loss are also at a greater risk for falls and other accidents along with social isolation. Using hearing aids can help improve social, functional, and emotional problems.
Sources: http://www.belmarrahealth.com/hearing-aids-boost-seniors-minds/
http://newsroom.cumc.columbia.edu/blog/2016/04/25/hearing-aid-use-associated-improved-cognitive-function-hearing-impaired-elderly/