If hearing loss goes untreated, a condition called “auditory deprivation” occurs; this has been confirmed by scientific studies. Seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing, a study by Johns Hopkins and National Institute on Aging researchers suggests. The findings, the researchers say, could lead to new ways to combat dementia, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Although the reason for the link between the two conditions is unknown, the investigators suggest that a common pathology may underlie both or that the strain of decoding sounds over the years may overwhelm the brains of people with hearing loss, leaving them more vulnerable to dementia. They also speculate that hearing loss could lead to dementia by making individuals more socially isolated, a known risk factor for dementia and other cognitive disorders.
But there’s good news! Whatever the cause, the scientists report, their finding may offer a starting point for interventions even as simple as hearing aids – that could delay or prevent dementia by improving patients’ hearing.
DON’T IGNORE THE WARNING SIGNS
1. Difficulty hearing in noisy situations, like restaurants.
2. Trouble understanding women’s and children’s voices.
3. Often ask people to repeat themselves.
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