The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline: How Treating Hearing Loss Can Preserve Your Brain Health

September 26, 2023

Understanding the Link and the Impact of Using Hearing Aids

Have you ever wondered if your difficulty in processing conversations or remembering names and places could be related to hearing loss? Recent research has shown a strong connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, raising concerns about the risk of dementia. In this blog post, we will explore the latest findings on the link between hearing loss and dementia, as well as the positive impact that hearing aids can have on preserving cognitive abilities.

The Impact of Hearing Loss on Cognitive Function

The impact of compromised signals to the brain on higher areas responsible for memory and processing is a significant concern. When the auditory signals are distorted or weakened, it can affect the brain's ability to accurately process and store information, leading to difficulties in memory recall and cognitive processing. Staying focused and actively participating in conversations can become more challenging for individuals with hearing loss. The effort required to concentrate on speech sounds and decipher words can be exhausting, making it harder to engage in meaningful discussions and maintain attention during social interactions.

It is important to recognize that hearing loss may be an underlying cause of difficulty in focusing. When the auditory system is not functioning optimally, the brain has to compensate for the lack of clear sound input, which can divert cognitive resources away from other tasks, such as concentration and attention. Identifying and addressing hearing loss can help improve overall focus and cognitive abilities.

The Role of Hearing Aids in Preserving Cognitive Abilities

Hearing loss is a risk factor for dementia that can be changed, so it's important to address it to potentially lower the risk of developing dementia. By recognizing hearing loss as a changeable risk factor, people and healthcare professionals can take proactive steps to lessen its impact on cognitive health. It's crucial to include hearing loss in the list of risk factors for dementia because research has shown that not treating hearing loss increases the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. By acknowledging the role of hearing loss in dementia development, we can prioritize finding it early and intervening, which leads to better outcomes for at-risk individuals.

One effective way to manage hearing loss and its potential impact on cognitive health is by using hearing aids. These hearing aids send sound directly to the ears, bypassing any hearing problems and reducing the brain's need to process sounds. This helps people with hearing loss maintain their cognitive abilities and possibly lower their risk of developing dementia. Wearing hearing aids also has a big impact on overall well-being. The ease and confidence gained from using hearing aids shouldn't be underestimated. With improved hearing, people can actively participate in conversations, social activities, and have a better quality of life. Wearing hearing aids doesn't just improve hearing; it also contributes to mental and emotional well-being, reduces feelings of isolation, and improves overall cognitive function.

In conclusion, addressing hearing loss as a changeable risk factor for dementia is essential for promoting cognitive health and reducing the risk of developing dementia. By recognizing the importance of hearing loss, using hearing aids, and regaining ease and confidence through wearing hearing aids, people can take control of their hearing health and potentially improve their overall cognitive well-being.

The connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline is undeniable, with research highlighting the increased risk of dementia associated with different levels of hearing loss. However, the good news is that treating hearing loss through the use of hearing aids can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline. By seeking treatment for hearing loss, individuals can improve their communication, quality of life, and preserve their cognitive abilities for a healthier future.

If you have been experiencing attention difficulties or suspect hearing loss, we encourage you to schedule a consultation for a hearing evaluation by calling us at (916) 646-2471. Take control of your hearing health and protect your brain health today.

Interested in learning more? Attend one of our regular hearing solution events to learn more about our unique approach to hearing loss or give us a call at 916-646-2471.

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You are tops!

Very professional, thorough, patient, friendly, educational and beautiful office setting. No pressure to sell a product, take it at your own pace. Highly recommend Kirsten and staff.

I am thrilled with the service, responsiveness and assistance The Hearing Solution provides me. The service I received from my previous audiologist does not come close.

I left your office today without the opportunity to say thank you. I just wanted to write and tell you that my appointment today was by far the best experience I've had with any audiologist in my 20+ years of hearing loss. As I write this I am listening to Schubert songs and hearing them better than I have in years. No distortion! And German text fairly understandable, especially given my old, weathered, damaged ears. Thank you so much for your patience and your incredibly positive attitude throughout the process today. Looking forward to seeing you next week!

Very friendly environment. Helpful and knowledgeable about hearing issues and resolution. I felt right at home here.

The staff is professional, thorough, and gracious. We could not have been happier. You are also met with refreshments and lovely sweets in the waiting room, the entire space is clean and beautifully appointed. 10/10.

I can not rave enough about the Hearing Solution in Sacramento. The staff is so friendly and efficient and you feel at home the minute you enter the office, The expertise of the audiologist and the technical assistants is superior. The “techies” are especially patient and are available to help you most any time. You will never leave there without your hearing needs being met.

Very pleased with her professionalism.

On time, patient and caring. Seems very knowledgeable.

As a physician, I am very particular about precision, attitude and patient care. I have had hearing problems for a number of years but was unsatisfied with my experience at Costco and the Major HMO in the Sacramento area. My experience at The Hearing Solution was dramatically better. From diagnosis through explanation through the careful trial periods of different brands the excellence of service, attentiveness to care and flexibility of service was outstanding. There is absolutedly no comparison between the mass market approach and The Hearing Solution. I would not have believed that the process of finding the proper hearing aid for myself could be so radically better. The Hearing Solution gets my highest rating.

I felt that my concerns were listened to fully. And I quickly realized that I could benefit from Kristen’s level of professional skills. And where else would a staff member flag me down on the street to make sure I found the right building! I felt so pleased and comfortable in your office. Many thanks! Betsy Major

I loved everything about my experience with Hearing Solutions, Everyone is so nice and very accommodating through the whole process until we secured the right fit for me. I recommend The Hearing Solutions to everyone that has a hearing problem!!!

Friendly, professional, and honest. They hugely helped me navigate what steps to take to improve my misophonia (not tinnitus)

A great visit, I learned a lot and of course, would highly recommend it! Looking forward to my next visit on the 8th. Am hoping to get the recipe for the best peanut butter cookie I've had since becoming a celiac too. Thank you Rita Thompson Thank you, Rita Thompson

Hearing evaluation and updates to existing aids. Fabulous results!

Very professional and kind.

Provided a full and extensive hearing exam and matched a hearing aid that best met my needs. No high-pressure sales. Very friendly and professional. The hearing aids take a little to get used too but very happy. I Can hear out both ears for first time in five or six years.

The process of evaluation was very professional, comfortable, and unrushed. Kirsten is very easy to work with. I understand why Dr. Chang recommended her. All of my questions were answered in a clear manner, and I am confident in the process. My interactions with the office prior to the hearing evaluation were excellent. I look forward to the next visit. Best regards, Bill

Excellent, knowledgeable, professional, lovely. What else is there to say.

One of the nicest professional places I have ever been. Very pleased and would recommend their services to anyone.

Going in is a pleasure. Everyone is courteous and makes you feel welcome. Very knowledgeable, helpful and timely. What more could you ask for?

Very friendly staff and goes that extra mile to make sure you have what you need. Thank you so much.

Very professional and we'll be connected to processing claims for hearing loss with the Department of Labor

I just participated in my first lip reading class with you. Wow! I am so grateful for the quality job you do in teaching me over zoom, how to better focus, hold and remember information. As I grow older (everyday!) I find my attention, patience and recall not working as well as I am used to. Thank you for teaching me such valuable lessons. I look forward to continuing with you!

Last summer I took my near-deaf sister to see Dr. Kristen. Within two hours she did the test, reprogrammed my late father’s Resound hearing aids, cleaning, and fitting. She walked out of the office, could even hear sounds from her back. Yesterday during her second service visit, Dr. Kristen even helped pull out her ear wax in both sides. Not only did she restore my sister’s hearing, her gentle, kind, and caring manners build up my sister’s confidence. She could even do zoom Bible study now. A great doctor with a beautiful heart!

The staff was pleasant, friendly, professional and explained the whole process. I could not have expected better service.

The office and staff were very nice. It is a very pleasant atmosphere. I saw Elizabeth and she was very friendly and professional. I enjoyed my visit and plan to return next month for a follow up.

From my 1st appointment with Dr. McWilliams I knew I was in good hands. The level of care she provides is unmatched. My Urroz was also extremely helpful and knowledgeable.