There are a number of studies that suggest a link between sensory impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, one study found that people suffering from hearing loss had a 30% to 40% greater chance per year of experiencing cognitive decline than people with normal hearing. The rates of cognitive decline were directly related to the level of study participants’ hearing loss. However, it remains unclear whether the sensory problems precede Alzheimer’s disease or the other way around. Some researchers believe that Alzheimer’s disease may affect nerve pathways to the brain that transmit auditory information, while others think that hearing impairment may interfere with mental processes.
If you think you may have a hearing loss or would like to have your hearing checked please contact us to schedule a hearing consultation. We provide comprehensive hearing assessments and we educate our patients so they can make an informed decision about their hearing needs.
P.S. Hearing loss may lead people to develop a sense of isolation.
