with Sandra Razzaghipour Ear Studio

Hearing loss is a common condition . According to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care about 3.6 million Australians have some level of hearing loss . As with other areas of the human body , we also experience wear and tear in our inner ear , the cochlea , which may cause an age-related hearing loss .

In addition to the inconvenience and frustration this can cause , hearing loss has also been linked to an increased risk of dementia . A client summed it up for us the other day by saying “ Getting old is not for the faint hearted ”.

While the link between hearing loss and dementia is seen as established by researchers , the detailed mechanisms are still debated . One possibility is that hearing loss may lead to social isolation . When people have difficulty hearing , they may withdraw from social activities and conversations . This is due to the effort of communicating becoming too great or it feels too embarrassing asking friends and family to repeat themselves , it can seem easier to simply not attend gettogethers . This can lead to loneliness and depression , both of which are known risk factors for dementia .

Another possible link being explored

is that untreated hearing loss may cause cognitive decline . As the brain must work harder to process sound , it has fewer resources available for other cognitive tasks , such as memory and attention . This may be a reason for cognitive decline over time .

The number of studies which have found a link between hearing loss and dementia is growing though . For example , a large study published in the journal JAMA Neurology found that people with hearing loss were twice as likely to develop dementia as people with normal hearing . Another study , published in the journal Lancet Neurology , found that people with severe hearing loss were five times more likely to develop dementia than people with normal hearing .

It is important to mention though that hearing loss is a risk factor in developing dementia , which means a link between the two has been verified . It does not mean that dementia is caused by hearing loss as is also pointed out by Dementia Australia .

Looking forward this means the recognised link between hearing loss and dementia has several implications for us all . First , it suggests that treating hearing loss may help to reduce the risk of developing dementia . Second , it suggests that people with hearing loss might benefit from screening for dementia regularly .

But where do I start ? If you have not had your hearing tested in the last few

years , that is the best place to start . Your hearing care practitioner will explain the results and advise you if any further steps are recommended .

Should you have a hearing loss , there are a number of things you can do to protect your brain health :

Get treated for your hearing loss . Hearing aids can help to improve your hearing and communication skills .

Stay socially connected . Make an effort to spend time with friends and family , and participate in social activities .

Stay mentally active . Challenge your brain with puzzles , games , and other activities .

Get regular exercise . Exercise is good for your overall health , including your brain health .

If you are concerned about your dementia risk , talk to your doctor . They can assess your risk and recommend strategies to reduce your risk .

We at Ear Studio are happy to help you with all your hearing concerns . If you find yourself noticing any of these signs , or have more questions about your hearing ability , book your next appointment today .

To book , phone ( 02 ) 9159 6122 or Email : reception @ earstudio . com . au or visit www . earstudio . com . au Ear Studio is located at Suite 9-10 / 60 Cecil Avenue , Lawton House in Castle Hill . TRADING HOURS : Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm by appointment only .

“ Proudly independent and locally owned “