Hearing Loss Linked to Cognitive Decline in Seniors

Did you know that individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss are up to five times as likely to develop dementia? Heather Glen Senior Livingwants individuals to know more about the correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline, so you can be on the lookout for signs and symptoms in your senior loved ones. 

What causes hearing loss? 

There are three defined types of hearing loss: conductive (involves outer or middle ear), sensorineural (involves inner ear) or mixed (a combination of the two). While many different factors contribute to hearing loss, the aging process is one of the most common causes—almost half the people in the United States older than age 65 have some degree of hearing loss. Others include prolonged exposure to noise, chronic ear infections, genetic predisposition, head injuries and even some medications. Hearing loss is often gradual, so the people suffering from it might not even notice that it’s occurring until their condition is classified as moderate or severe. 

You might recognize hearing loss in a loved one before they do, as outward symptoms include muffled speech, frequently asking others to speak more slowly or loudly, always turning up the volume on the television or radio, withdrawing from conversations and avoiding social settings and interactions they used to enjoy. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to approach the topic with your loved one delicately. Help them understand that it’s a normal part of aging and encourage them to visit a hearing professional who can answer any questions they might have. 

How does hearing loss lead to dementia? 

According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia compared to individuals of the same age with normal hearing. It’s suggested that struggling with hearing loss causes changes in the brain that raise the risk for dementia, due to resulting tissue loss and changes to the brain structure. Additionally, when it’s difficult to hear, the brain is working overtime to understand what people are saying—this depletes a person’s mental energy and brain power needed to function properly. This can further progress the symptoms and onset of Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive disorders. 

Aside from effects on the brain, seniors with untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience loneliness, worry, depression and anxiety. This can lead to social isolation—which is one of the leading factors contributing to dementia. 

Can anything be done to prevent this cognitive decline? 

Once your loved one has admitted to or accepted the fact that they are experiencing hearing loss, their hearing professional will be the best source for a course of action. Hearing aids can help relieve dementia symptoms while also improving hearing, but it’s dependent on the severity of your loved one’s condition. 

Another way to help older adults combat the connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline is by ensuring they live in a safe, state-of-the-art environment that’s equipped to help them through hearing loss, dementia or any other hurdle that’s thrown their way. Heather Glen Senior Living is the premier Lehigh Valley personal care community, offering top-notch services and amenities, activity programming and living options suitable for seniors of all ages and all health levels. 

Whether you’re interested in learning the benefits of a personal care community, or need help understanding our memory care options, contact us onlineor give us a call at (610) 841-4478.