When we consider the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss often springs to mind as the hallmark symptom. However, several other early indicators can point to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Did you know that hearing loss is also linked to cognitive decline and dementia? September is World Alzheimer’s Month, so there’s no better time to take a closer look at the relationship between hearing loss and Alzheimer’s.
How Common is Alzheimer’s Disease?
According to the World Health Organization, Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-70% of dementia cases worldwide, making it the most prevalent form of cognitive decline. Despite its widespread impact, diagnosing Alzheimer’s remains a challenge. This is partly due to the subtle onset of its symptoms.
Early Signs of Alzheimer’s
Understanding the early signs of Alzheimer’s can help individuals and their families to seek diagnosis and interventions sooner. The signs of Alzheimer’s can include:
- Memory Loss Affecting Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or repeatedly asking for the same information.
- Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems: Difficulties following a plan, working with numbers, or noticing changes in the ability to concentrate.
- Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to complete daily tasks, getting lost en route to a familiar location, or managing budgets.
- Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates, seasons, or lapses in understanding where they are or how they got there.
- Visual and Spatial Difficulties: Trouble reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast, potentially affecting driving.
- New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing: Struggling to continue a conversation, repeating themselves, or struggling to find the right word.
This list is by no means exhaustive but highlights some of the common Alzheimer’s symptoms. Notably, one area that’s drawing increasing attention in Alzheimer’s research is the correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline.
The Link to Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is common among the older population. Emerging research underlines a significant link between hearing loss and an increased risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. This connection might seem unexpected, but a deeper understanding of how we process sound and speech reveals a close relationship.
How Hearing Loss Contributes to Cognitive Decline
- Cognitive Overload: When hearing is compromised, the brain works harder to process sound, taxing cognitive resources that could be used elsewhere. This continuous overload can exacerbate the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
- Social Withdrawal: Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, a well-documented risk factor for cognitive decline. The frustration and embarrassment of not understanding conversations can cause individuals to avoid social interactions, leading to decreased cognitive stimulation.
- Decreased Brain Stimulation: Hearing is a critical channel of stimulation for the brain. When auditory input decreases, it can accelerate brain atrophy, including areas needed for memory and cognitive functions.
When we understand the links between hearing health and cognitive decline, new treatment options open. Treating hearing loss can help slow or prevent cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
The Importance of Hearing Tests
Given the connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, regular hearing evaluations are a key component of maintaining cognitive health, especially as we age. Hearing tests can uncover the extent of hearing loss and offer suggestions for appropriate treatments. This can include hearing aids that can dramatically improve quality of life and potentially mitigate some risk factors associated with cognitive decline.
World Alzheimer’s Month: A Time for Awareness and Action
World Alzheimer’s Month is a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and the importance of acknowledging the early signs. It’s also a great time to talk about your hearing health. Knowing more about the connection between hearing health and cognitive function can help you do the right thing for both your hearing health and your cognitive health.
Taking the First Step
This World Alzheimer’s Month, take proactive steps to boost your cognitive health. Don’t overlook the health of your ears! Book a hearing test today and find out more about your hearing. Your journey towards understanding and mitigating the early signs of Alzheimer’s can start with a hearing test.
If you or a loved one has hearing loss, we’ll help you learn more about your hearing needs and review treatment options. Together we’ll create a tailored treatment plan to help you hear more clearly. This could include hearing aids, communication tips, assistive listening devices, and more.