For years, scientists have noticed a connection between hearing loss and brain health. Older adults with hearing loss are more likely to experience problems with memory and thinking. But an important question remains: Can treating hearing loss actually help protect the brain?
New findings from a major research project called the ACHIEVE study provide some encouraging clues. The study suggests that treating hearing loss may help slow certain changes in the brain that are linked with aging and cognitive decline. While the research does not prove that hearing aids prevent dementia, it adds to the growing evidence that taking care of your hearing may be an important part of healthy aging.
The ACHIEVE study included almost 1,000 adults between the ages of 70 and 84 who had mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Some participants received hearing aids along with professional hearing care and counselling. Others received information about healthy aging.
After three years, researchers found an interesting difference. Among people who already had several risk factors for memory problems, those who received hearing treatment had a slower rate of cognitive decline than those who did not receive hearing treatment.
Researchers then looked at blood samples from some participants for substances that can provide clues about what is happening in the brain. One marker, called GFAP, is associated with changes in the brain. After three years, GFAP levels had increased in the group that received health education. In the group that received hearing treatment, however, these levels stayed about the same.
Why might hearing make a difference?
One possibility is that hearing loss makes the brain work harder. When sounds are unclear, your brain has to spend extra effort trying to understand what people are saying. Hearing aids can make sounds easier to hear and understand, potentially reducing some of that extra effort.
There is another important possibility: social connection. People with untreated hearing loss may avoid conversations, restaurants, family gatherings and other social activities because hearing becomes difficult and frustrating. Better hearing can make it easier to stay involved with family, friends and the community. Staying socially active gives the brain more opportunities to listen, think, remember and communicate.
The research does not mean that wearing hearing aids will prevent dementia. The latest analysis also involved a relatively small group of people. But the findings add to a growing body of research suggesting that hearing health and brain health may be connected.
There is a simple takeaway: if you’re having difficulty hearing, don’t simply accept it as a normal part of getting older. A hearing test is an easy place to start. If hearing loss is identified, a hearing professional can discuss whether hearing aids or other strategies could help. Taking care of your hearing isn’t just about hearing conversations better. It may also be one more way to stay connected, active and engaged as you get older. And that is good for both your ears—and potentially your brain.
Hearing Well Matters!
Call us at 905-681-4327, or e-mail us at info@hearingwellmatters.ca to arrange a free hearing test for yourself or a loved one.
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