From: hounddog23x@gmail.com   
      
   Is your hearing loss leading you on a path to dementia?   
      
   Posted 4 days ago   
      
   There's now another reason to stop ignoring your hearing loss. Research shows   
   that addressing your hearing loss could lead to overall better cognitive   
   function and reduce your chance of developing dementia.   
      
   According to the Better Hearing Institute, a recent study has found that   
   hearing loss is associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline in older   
   adults. It goes on to state 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 greater the hearing loss, the higher the chance   
   of developing dementia. The exact relationship between healthy hearing and a   
   healthy brain is still unknown. However, there are several theories, including   
   that the reduction    
   in sensory stimulation due to hearing loss affects corresponding areas of the   
   brain.   
      
   Or perhaps, those with a hearing loss need to spend so much energy trying to   
   hear accurately that it depletes cognitive function elsewhere. A simpler   
   theory is that untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and   
   depression -- both known risk    
   factors for dementia and other cognitive disorders.   
      
   "When it comes down to it, it doesn't really matter the exact relationship   
   between dementia and hearing loss," said Irma Cohens, BC-HIS, with Hearing   
   Group. "The key here is to recognize that there is a high probability that   
   there is a connection.    
   Knowing this, we should be doing everything we can to treat hearing loss. That   
   includes regular hearing checks and wearing hearing aids when necessary. After   
   all, healthy hearing can do nothing but good for you."   
      
   Hearing Group offers free, no obligation hearing screenings to area residents.   
   For an appointment, call 620-342-4327. Their offices are at 2715 Candlewood   
   Dr., Suite A. Learn more at www.HearingGroup.com.   
      
      
      
      
   http://m.emporiagazette.com/news/article_8396fd5e-7d55-5ad7-bef7   
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