Experts have performed a systematic review of research literature, and upon doing so, they have noticed initial evidence pertaining to how hearing aids can help the brain remain fit and young even as one ages.
Participants Wearing Hearing Aids Had 19% Fewer Chances of Developing Cognitive Decline Symptoms
Some researchers from Singapore observed this. As they checked eight longitudinal studies focusing on adults with difficulty hearing, they noticed that those participants who used hearing aids had a 19% less likelihood of exhibiting symptoms related to cognitive decline. Such a figure compared with those who did not use hearing aids, as noted by Science Alert. Their findings were included in JAMA Neurology.
According to Science Alert, a meta-analysis of 11 different studies was also conducted. This analysis showed that after using these hearing aids, participants had a 3% better score on cognitive assessments than short-term.
These findings indicate probable brain benefits that come with hearing aids. However, the researchers note that when studying the phenomenon further, they may need more intense random trials.
Hearing Loss as a Dementia Risk Factor
While these findings are quite significant, they are not the first to show how hearing is linked to declining cognition. Science Alert notes that hearing
loss is a top adaptable risk factor for dementia. This risk factor comes alongside obesity, lack of physical activity, and smoking.
In a study conducted in 2016, researchers from Harvard University observed that when patients with hearing loss utilized hearing aids, they had better and faster scores on tests pertaining to attention and memory. Because of these findings, scientists wondered whether hearing aids were linked to a decline in cognition.
However, a thorough review conducted last 2021 noted mixed findings pertaining to this hypothesis. Some of the analysed research revealed no direct effects on cognitive decline brought about by hearing aids. However, on the contrary, some studies did show such a relationship.
This recent meta-analysis has clearer results showing how sound may benefit the brain. The reason behind this phenomenon might not be established, but several theories and assumptions can be tested in the future.
Dementia Prevalence
According to the World Health Organization, dementia is presently the 7th top cause of death. On top of that, it is also a major cause of dependence and disability among the elder globally.
A Lancet study also notes how hearing loss is linked to a 9% risk boost.
Hence, if hearing aids are found to fight against decline in cognition effectively, it may lead to groundbreaking impacts. It may be worth exploring further.
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