Study finds hearing aids may delay onset of dementia
Post on 17th July 2019
A new study suggests that wearing hearing aids for age-related hearing loss could delay the onset of dementia and slow brain ageing by eight years.
There has been evidence for some time of a link between hearing loss and dementia-related illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, but it was not clear whether the loss was a symptom of the illness or one of the causes.
Latest research conducted by the University of Exeter and King’s College London found participants who wore hearing aids for age-related hearing difficulties performed better in memory tests than those who did not and had better levels of concentration.
The results of the study, which involved 25,000 people aged 50 and above, were presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Los Angeles. Further research and clinical trials are needed but it suggests that wearing a hearing aid could protect against long term brain decline.
At Scrivens we regularly see the benefits hearing aids can bring to those living with hearing loss, improving their quality of life so that they can pick up sounds and conversations, join in and feel less isolated.
Left untreated, hearing loss can lead to social isolation and other conditions that all have links with dementia related diseases. It’s a cause we care about and are supporting Alzheimer’s Society as our charity of the year for the fifth year running.
With NHS hearing tests and digital hearing aids readily available on the high street, it is easy to seek help.
If you are concerned about your hearing please call in at your local Scrivens branch for advice. We recommend an annual hearing health check for anyone over 50 to identify any changes and see what action is needed.
Our branches provide a free NHS hearing service for people who are eligible and have been referred by their GP.
To find your nearest branch enter your postcode below