Hearing is a cognitive process. We use our brains to hear, the ears are just a mechanism for getting the world’s sound information to the brain. When there is hearing loss, the brain is not able to do the job it was intended to do at its best: making sense of the physical world. So for people who are undergoing a cognitive decline, or those who are genetically predisposed to these declines, including dementia, having hearing loss may help exacerbate or hasten the onset of these types of cognitive difficulties. Similarly, when hearing loss is known, treating it (typically with hearing aids) may help to significantly slow down the process of cognitive decline by keeping a person in touch with the real world and other people.
As human beings, we are very social. We have known for years that untreated hearing loss often leads to social isolation and withdrawal from many previously enjoyed activities. Social isolation is a known risk factor for dementia. Therefore, it makes sense that when untreated hearing loss exists, its detrimental effects on social communication can further the progress of dementia-type behaviors.
At Advanced Specialty Care, we have a dedicated team of audiologists including Dr. Arthur Tepper, Wendy Wallach-DeLucia, Dr. Jocelyn Dore, Dr. Melisa Tatton Lev and Caitlin Cann who will work with you. Through diagnostic testing and conversations with you, one of our audiologists will not only determine what your hearing abilities are, but will work with you towards solutions for better hearing and communication. To take the first step and schedule a hearing exam, call (203) 830-4700 today. Our offices are located in Fairfield County, CT in Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, and Ridgefield.
By Arthur S. Tepper, Au.D.