How Good Hearing Can Combat Memory Loss and Lower the Risk of Diseases like Alzheimer’s

Reviewed by Dr. Porter on January 17, 2019

Many people assume that hearing loss and reduced memory functionality are simply natural aspects of the aging process. This couldn’t be further from the truth, however. Both memory loss and hearing loss are symptoms of deeper issues that affect aging patients. While it may not seem, at least on the surface, like these two ailments are intimately linked, research shows that many aging disorders have a close causal relationship. In fact, a 2011 Johns Hopkins study shows that seniors with hearing loss are substantially more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and other memory loss problems.

Hearing affects both physical and mental health. Because hearing is so deeply linked with cognitive function, it’s important for aging patients to ensure that their hearing is consistently cared for. Many people don’t know that they’re suffering from hearing loss until it’s advanced enough to affect their daily lives. Because of this, some patients may experience peripheral conditions associated with hearing loss before they receive hearing care. That’s why it’s important for aging patients to regularly see an audiologist, even if you’re not experiencing the symptoms of hearing loss.

Investing in an appointment with a hearing doctor in Pierce County, WA is an important part of any comprehensive aging strategy. Maintaining good hearing can stave off a number physical and psychological conditions associated with aging. Here are just some of the ways that a hearing doctor in Pierce County, WA can help you maintain your health in old age:

  • Stress: If you’re straining to hear, your brain may be experiencing cognitive overload. When people experience hearing loss, sounds can be difficult to decipher, meaning that your brain is working overtime to try and process incoming information. This can cause significant cognitive stress that could eat up the brain power necessary to perform organizational and memory tasks.
  • Isolation: Social isolation is a common side effect of hearing loss. If you’re struggling to understand every word that’s said to you, spending time with your friends and loved ones can become a challenging task, rather than an enjoyable activity. Unfortunately, social isolation is a known factor contributing toward memory loss.
  • Quiet time: If you find yourself spending lots of time alone in quiet spaces to accommodate your hearing loss, your brain will have very little to do. This can contribute to premature cognitive decline, and could contribute to memory loss, Alzheimer’s and related conditions.

Since 1998, Harbor Audiology & Hearing Services Inc. has been a trusted hearing doctor in Pierce County, WA. We’re proud to provide each of our patients with quality hearing care solutions that meet their needs. Our team of audiological professionals is committed to serving your long-term healthcare needs. We understand that hearing aids are one component of a holistic healthcare strategy, and we’re proud of our ability to provide our patients with the support they need to reap better long-term health outcomes. Reach out to one of our friendly team members today to schedule your next audiology appointment. We look forward to helping you soon!

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