Cognition Series Pt 3
The last few weeks we have discussed potential consequences of untreated hearing loss, including increased risk of dementia, falls, social isolation and depression. A Johns Hopkins study showed participants with hearing loss tested over the course of 6 years had cognitive abilities that declined 30-40% than those with normal hearing. They also determined individuals with even a mild hearing loss were three times more likely to have fallen in the past year. Now that we have given you this information, what can you do with it?
If you have any concerns regarding your memory or balance, it is important to discuss this with your physician. Then, you should set up an appointment with a Doctor of Audiology to have a comprehensive hearing assessment. Your audiologist may also recommend balance testing depending on your concerns. Once you have all the information in front of you, it is easier to make an informed decision.
If hearing aids are recommended, take action sooner rather than later. Hearing aids improve your ability to communicate and help you interact with loved ones. Furthermore, a small study at Johns Hopkins showed a significant improvement in balance testing when individuals had their hearing aids turned on versus turned off. Individuals were able to maintain their balance for twice as long with their hearing aids! These are just a few of the reasons hearing aids can help improve your quality of life.
Please consider making an appointment today with one of our audiologists at Gardner Audiology. For more information, call 1-800-277-1182 or email info@gardneraudiology.com
