We Hear with Our Ears, But We Listen with Our Brain: The Side Effects of Untreated Hearing Loss
Guest post from Harp Hearing Care:
“Brain hearing” is becoming a more widespread term as research reveals the alarming side effects of untreated hearing loss. Age-related hearing loss occurs very gradually and can often be difficult to recognize. However, the importance of early detection and treatment of hearing loss is critical, not only to aid with hearing abilities, but to assist with all of the other impacts that hearing loss has on daily living.
With winter in full force this time of year, there is an increased risk of falls, and even with a mild hearing loss you are three times as likely to have a history of falls as the auditory system and the balance system are directly linked. Two more serious conditions to consider are depression and dementia. Without even being aware of it, some people tend to withdraw from their once enjoyable activities when they cannot hear well, leading to social isolation and depression. Research has indicated that there is a connection between untreated hearing loss and dementia. When our brain does not receive the sounds that it needs to stay active and fit, it starts to get lazy which can impact our memory and can add stress on the brain when it processes information. An important factor in maintaining your brain health is to manage your hearing loss and give those sounds back to the brain that it is missing. But before this can happen, you need to know where your hearing levels are at and this is why having a full hearing assessment is so important and highly encouraged. Come celebrate Audiology Awareness Month in October by treating yourself to a FREE hearing assessment.
Dr. Sarah Blenkhorn, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
President and Audiologist Harp Hearing Care