The study looked at adults aged 80 to 99 with hearing loss. Thirty-four of the participants regularly used hearing aids, and they scored higher on mental function tests compared to those without hearing aids. Furthermore, cognitive function was directly associated with a person’s ability to hear even without hearing aids.
Lalwani explained, “Our study suggests that using a hearing aid may offer a simple, yet important, way to prevent or slow the development of dementia by keeping adults with hearing loss engaged in conversation and communication.”
Over half of those over the age of 75 suffer hearing loss, and yet only 15 percent wear hearing aid devices.
Previous research has also found that seniors living with hearing loss are also at a greater risk for falls and other accidents along with social isolation. Using hearing aids can help improve social, functional, and emotional problems.
Also, read Bel Marra Health’s article on The surprising cause of your hearing loss.