Amidst hectic schedules and the distractions of events, it’s all too easy to put off important appointments, such as those with a hearing specialist or for a hearing aid fitting. You may not even get around to shopping for hearing aids at all. However, putting off on treatment for hearing loss is a lot more than just a mistake concerning your ears alone.
Neglected hearing loss can lead to a higher risk of cognitive decline
Scientists have demonstrated a clear connection between neglected hearing loss and mental decline. This underscores the critical importance of not delaying treatment, as it can have adverse effects on your mental function too.
The impact on hearing
If you care about your hearing health, it’s important to never neglect any symptoms of hearing loss. You inadvertently cause more damage to your hearing if you delay getting a hearing examination or hearing aids if you need them.
The development of your hearing loss will be quickened if you constantly need to crank up the volume on your devices. Using a hearing aid can help alleviate this by selectively amplifying specific frequencies, thereby delaying the progression of hearing loss.
The connection between neglected hearing loss and mental function
Your brain and your hearing are closely linked. Cognitive function can be seriously impacted by neglected hearing loss according to some substantial research. Social isolation, frequently a consequence of weakened hearing, can result in mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, which in turn can exacerbate mental decline over time.
Furthermore, prolonged untreated hearing loss causes the brain to adapt by reallocating resources from processing sound to other functions, such as visual processing, potentially complicating the recovery of normal hearing function down the road.
Navigating neuroplasticity
The brain’s remarkable ability to adapt, known as neuroplasticity, is both a friend and a foe in this scenario. While it allows for flexibility and recovery, prolonged neglected hearing loss can result in considerable rewiring of the brain, making it difficult to return to previous functionality.
But it is possible to undo this effect. In spite of previous delays in seeking treatment, using hearing aids as prescribed by a specialist can still provide substantial benefits in both the short and long term.
Set up an appointment with a hearing specialist
While prompt treatment is ideal, it’s never too late to tackle hearing loss. Making an appointment with us as soon as possible is essential, ensuring you can enjoy better hearing and mental function moving forward. Call today!