IN Bethel Park Spring 2019 | Page 64

INDUSTRY INSIGHT YOUR HEARING SPONSORED CONTENT THE LINK BETWEEN HEARING AND BRAIN FUNCTION H earing loss is often viewed as a stand-alone medical issue. However, there are additional health concerns associated with hearing loss that shouldn’t be ignored. Studies are beginning to show that taking care of your hearing can preserve your memory and brain function. When we think of hearing, our first thought is generally our ears, but in reality, it is the brain that hears. Understanding the brain’s role in quality hearing is key to understanding hearing loss. Oftentimes, the additional effort dedicated to listening when there is a decrease in hearing ability can cause stress, which in turn may result in decreased memory resources. In essence, one’s brain becomes so taxed from the mere effort of listening, that there is no energy left to remember the information that was taken in. Here is the core issue: we actually hear with our brain, and not our ears. Our brain’s ability to analyze information heard is impacted by the effort the brain must put forth in order to first decode the actual Debra Swift, BC-HIS Founder and Owner words heard. The link between hearing and brain function also suggests connections between hearing loss and dementia. According to multiple John Hopkins studies, the use of properly fitted hearing aids can help in preventing dementia. In fact, hearing loss can have a greater impact Photo Credit: R Frank Photography on potential dementia than other health conditions or even genetic diseases. Additionally, studies have shown that those who use effective hearing aids are more socially engaged and possess a more positive outlook on life. The relationships one engages in once hearing loss is treated can be yet another preventative measure when it comes to cognitive abilities, memory, and dementia. A recent study by the Journal of the American Geriatric Society shows that there is a greater chance of cognitive decline for those with hearing difficulties who do not use hearing aids. This is largely due to the natural tendency to withdraw from social activities when listening becomes difficult. One of the best things you can do to preserve your memory and cognitive abilities is to get a hearing test. Be proactive about your hearing. Many hearing evaluations are covered by Medicare or insurance and can help identify any hearing difficulties you may be experiencing. They won’t know... ... you’re wearing a hearing device. Complimentary > Hearing screening and consultation – it could just be wax! > Hearing aid clean and check if you currently wear hearing aids. > Demonstration of the newest digital hearing aids. See how far technology has come! > 45-Day Risk-FREE trial period. * DON’T WAIT CALL TODAY (412) 347-4615 *Deposit may be required. 500 Let’s Keep It Simple Specia ! l $ Offer The Hearing Aid Test Drive You now know that the brain does the hearing – not your ears. Modern hearing aid technology is able to send your brain the signals needed to understand conversations. Each hearing aid brand has their unique way of “feeding” your brain. At Swift Audiology, we help you discover the right hearing aid for you - one that gives your unique brain the information needed to enjoy life to the fullest. So how do we know which hearing aid is best able to give your brain the information it needs? 1) Make an appointment for an initial hearing evaluation 2) Take home a state of the art hearing aid today. * We allow you to try many different types and price levels with no commitment or deposit required OFF 3) Take your time evaluating which hearing Receive $500 off any pair of Optimum, aid suits you best * Preferred or Standard digital hearing devices The Choice is Yours The only way to know is by wearing the hearing aid in your day to day life. How you hear is as unique as your fingerprint and what works for one person might not work for another. Our Hearing Aid Test Drive is designed to let you try out different hearing aids to figure out which one is right for your brain. Expires May 31, 2017 Call 412-453-3309 to Schedule Your Risk-Free Hearing Aid Test Drive *Offer valid on any pair of Optimum, Preferred and Standard hearing aids. Promotion cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Previous purchases excluded. INCBPFEB2019 4 LOCATIONS! SwiftAudiology.com NWGOLF52017_.8.5x11.indd 1 62 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE ❘ icmags.com Like us on Facebook at /swiftaudiology WASHINGTON • NORTH HILLS • SOUTH HILLS • ALLISON PARK 4/4/17 2:29 PM