Hearing Aids Shown to Lower Risk of Dementia, Depression and Falling

The researchers then pinpointed any new diagnosis of dementia, depression, or serious fall injuries during this time. Considerable differences emerged between those who treated their hearing loss with hearing aids and those who chose not to pursue hearing aids on all the risk factors studied.

Learn more

Hearing Aids Shown to Lower Risk of Dementia, Depression and Falling

HEARING AIDS SHOWN TO LOWER RISK OF DEMENTIA, DEPRESSION AND FALLING

Elham Mahmoudi, Ph.D., led a new study published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society, which investigated the benefits older adults obtain from wearing hearing aids. Data from 115,000 individuals over 66 years old were tracked one year before their hearing loss diagnosis to three years afterward. The researchers then pinpointed any new diagnosis of dementia, depression, or serious fall injuries during this time. Considerable differences emerged between those who treated their hearing loss with hearing aids and those who chose not to pursue hearing aids on all the risk factors studied.

Wearing a hearing aid reduced:

· the relative risk of being diagnosed with dementia, including Alzheimer’s,  by 18%

· the relative risk of being diagnosed with depression or anxiety by 11%

· the relative risk of fall-related injuries by 13%

The reasons for this are complicated, and can include loss of social interaction, loss of independence, loss of balance and less stimulation to the brain. Some researchers also believe that the loss of nerve impulses from the ear to the brain, and loss of cognitive ability leading to dementia, could be part of the same aging process.

One takeaway from this study is that you have two options – ignore your hearing loss or treat it. You can decrease the aforementioned risk factors as well as boost other areas of your life.

Big gains from consistent hearing aid use:

· A social life that is more dynamic and enriching – you will be able to participate more in conversation with groups of people and hear the punch line when someone tells a joke.

· Conserve your energy – your brain does not have to work so hard to follow conversation. Energy levels run higher when you do not have to put as much effort into listening.

· Manage your tinnitus – diminish the effects of “ringing in the ears” by stimulating your hearing centers with hearing aids. Approximately 80% of hearing aid users notice reduced tinnitus.

North Side Audiology Group wants you to be a successful hearing aid user. There is no better time than now to reassess how you feel about your hearing loss and make sure your hearing aids are improving your life to the fullest.

Here are four guiding principles to lead you towards better hearing health.  

1. Acceptance: This is the first step in your journey towards hearing better. Accepting your hearing loss and communication barriers allows you to seek the help and support you need.

2. Positive attitude: Far more people experience success when they have a desire to learn and determination to increase the ability to hear better.

3. Realistic expectations: Hearing aids improve your hearing, but they are not a cure-all. Focus on benefits you have noticed and be aware maximum improvements may take 6 weeks to 6 months for your hearing to reach full potential.  

4. Consistency and patience: Give yourself the time to acclimate to sounds you have been missing. One tip is to increase the number of hours you wear your hearing aids every day until you are wearing them until bedtime.

Comprehensive Audiology Services to Meet Your Needs
We provide comprehensive audiology and hearing care services including complete audiological evaluations, hearing loss rehabilitation, and counseling.
View All Services

Request a Call Back

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

About North Side Audiology

North Side Audiology Group is a leader in audiological care specializing in the treatment of hearing loss. Services include comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings & programming, hearing loss rehabilitation and more.

Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm
Saturday: 9:00am-1:00pm

Our practice is conveniently located on the North Side of Chicago at 4200 W. Peterson Avenue, Suite 100.

(773) 777-3277

Call
Map
Reviews