Healthy Hearing
By Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D.
Dementia-Hearing Loss Link Prompts BHI to Urge Hearing Checks
A recent study conducted by Johns Hopkins and the National Institute on Aging has found a significant link between untreated hearing loss and the development of dementia. This important discovery led the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D. to stress the importance of routine hearing checks for all Baby Boomers and Gen Xers in recognition of Word Alzheimer’s Day in September 2012. In light of this recent study, Doctors Hearing Clinic is encouraging seniors to schedule routine hearing checks on at least an annual basis.
As evidence increases showing that there may be a connection between hearing loss and dementia, the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) is urging hearing checks among Baby Boomers and Gen Xers. Because hearing loss generally occurs gradually, it can often go unnoticed for several years, thereby delaying the initial diagnosis of hearing loss. In addition, research has shown that even after hearing loss is identified, those with hearing loss generally wait an average of seven years before pursuing treatment with hearing aids. Because most hearing loss can be managed with hearing aids, BHI also is encouraging those with hearing loss to be fitted with hearing aids when appropriate. Several studies have looked at the relationship between hearing loss and cognitive function. One such study, conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins and the National Institute on Aging, and published in the Archives of Neurology, found that seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. The study also found that the more hearing loss they had, the higher their likelihood of developing dementia. In fact, it has been show that for every 10 decibel decline in
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hearing thresholds, the risk of developing dementia increases by 20%. In this study, researchers found that, when compared to those with normal hearing, the risk of dementia doubled in those with mild hearing loss, tripled in those with moderate hearing loss, and increased fivefold among those with severe hearing loss. According to the Johns Hopkins press release on the study, the reason for the link between the two conditions is unknown, but 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. According to BHI, these research findings should prompt people to take hearing loss seriously. BHI encourages Boomers and Gen Xers especially to get their hearing tested by a hearing healthcare professional who can provide a thorough examination and, if needed, fit them with hearing aids.
In an effort to improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s disease, BHI advocates that hearing checks, hearing healthcare, and hearing aids when appropriate, be included in their regimen of care. According to the Institute, unaddressed hearing loss can present an added, unnecessary strain on individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, and also on caregivers who suffer from hearing loss themselves. BHI also advocates that hearing checks and hearing healthcare be part of the diagnostic process.
Studies show that although a significantly higher percentage of people with Alzheimer’s disease may have hearing loss, they are also much less likely to receive attention for their hearing needs than their normally aging peers.
Research also shows that the use of hearing aids among Alzheimer’s patients with hearing loss, in combination with appropriate aural rehabilitation in a multidisciplinary setting, can help alleviate the symptoms of depression, passivity, negativism, disorientation, anxiety, social isolation, feelings of helplessness, loss of independence and general cognitive decline.
Because healthy hearing helps people remain socially and cognitively engaged, BHI urges all Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and others to make hearing checks a regular part of their preventive healthcare. To make it easier for anyone to determine if they need a comprehensive hearing test by a hearing healthcare professional, please contact Doctors Hearing Clinic for more information.
About Alzheimer’s Disease Source: Alzheimer’s Disease International Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia and accounts for 50 percent to 75 percent of all cases. It destroys brain cells and nerves disrupting the transmitters, which carry messages in the brain, particularly those responsible for storing memories. Alzheimer’s disease was first described by Alois Alzheimer in 1906. For more information on Alzheimer’s disease, visit http://www.alz. co.uk/info/alzheimers-disease. Content adapted from Better Hearing Institute (BHI)
Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, served as National Chair of the American Board of Audiology, and was recently elected as President Elect of the American Academy of Audiology. To learn more, visit doctorshearingclinic.com or call Doctors Hearing Clinic at (334) 396-1635.
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