As we age, it is common for our hearing to deteriorate. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, around 25% of people aged between 65 and 74 experience hearing loss, and this number increases to around 50% for those over 75. But did you know that treating hearing loss can also benefit our brain health?
Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is linked to a variety of negative health outcomes, including cognitive decline, depression, and social isolation. This is because hearing loss can cause the brain to work harder to try and fill in the gaps in sound perception, leading to increased cognitive load and cognitive fatigue.
By treating hearing loss, we can reduce the cognitive load on our brain and help to maintain our cognitive abilities. This is because hearing aids and other assistive devices help to amplify sounds and improve our ability to perceive speech, making it easier for our brains to process auditory information.
In addition to improving cognitive function, treating hearing loss can also help to improve our social interactions and emotional well-being. When we can hear and communicate more effectively, we are better able to engage with others and maintain our relationships, reducing feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
If you are experiencing hearing loss, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. An audiologist can assess your hearing and recommend the best course of treatment, which may include hearing aids or other assistive devices.
Remember, taking care of your hearing is not just good for your ears, it's good for your brain and overall health too!