According to John Hopkins Medicine, hearing loss is a common problem in ageing adults, affecting an estimated 30% of people over 65. It can have several negative consequences, including social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline.
While hearing aids can effectively improve hearing, they are not always a complete solution. Hearing loss can sometimes be so severe that hearing aids are ineffective. Additionally, hearing aids can be expensive and difficult to use.
There are several innovative approaches to addressing hearing loss and cognitive decline beyond hearing aids. These approaches include:
Cognitive training
Cognitive training programs can help to improve memory, attention, and other cognitive skills that can be impaired by hearing loss. These programs typically involve exercises designed to challenge the brain and improve cognitive function.
Cognitive training programs typically involve exercises designed to improve specific cognitive skills, such as memory, attention, and processing speed. These programs can be delivered in various formats, including online, in person, or through mobile apps.
Some studies have shown that cognitive training can improve cognitive function in people with hearing loss. For example, a study published in Hearing Research found that people with hearing loss who participated in a 12-week cognitive training program significantly improved memory, attention, and processing speed.
What are cognitive training programs?
Cognitive Training (CT) enhances cognitive abilities through targeted mental exercises akin to physical fitness routines. It focuses on strengthening core cognitive skills and addressing deficits in thinking, learning, reading, memory, and attention. CT recognizes the importance of cognitive development, which encompasses innate and learned factors and aims to improve overlooked areas.
How effective are community-based programs in addressing hearing loss and cognitive decline?
Hearing loss is a growing public health concern associated with increased risks of dementia, cognitive decline, higher healthcare costs, and adverse outcomes. However, despite its prevalence, only a fraction of those affected use hearing aids due to limited insurance coverage and high prices, particularly affecting low-income individuals and people of colour.
A study recruited 151 participants, half of whom received the intervention, while the other half served as a control group on a waitlist. Communication function was assessed using the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly, a 40-point scale where higher scores indicate poorer function. After three months, the intervention group showed significant improvement in communication function compared to the control group.
The success of the intervention can be attributed to the involvement of community health workers who played a vital role in explaining the amplification device to individuals with lower digital health literacy. Without the assistance of community health workers, these individuals would not have had access to hearing aids or experienced subsequent communication improvements.
Telehealth
Telehealth services allow people to receive hearing care from a qualified professional without travelling to a clinic. This can be a convenient and affordable option for people living in rural areas or travelling difficult.
Telehealth services allow people to receive hearing care from a qualified professional without travelling to a clinic. This can be a convenient and affordable option for people living in rural areas or travelling difficult.
Telehealth services typically involve a video conference between the patient and the hearing care professional. The hearing care professional can then assess the patient’s hearing and recommend the best course of treatment.
Assistive technology
Assistive technology devices, such as cochlear implants and bone conduction hearing aids, can provide more effective hearing for some people. Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that bypass the damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. Bone conduction hearing aids transmit sound vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear.
Assistive technology devices can provide more effective hearing for some people with hearing loss. Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that bypass the damaged hair cells in the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. Bone conduction hearing aids transmit sound vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear.
Cochlear implants and bone-conduction hearing aids can be expensive, but they can significantly improve hearing for some people.
Community-based programs
Community-based programs can provide social support and educational resources to people with hearing loss. These programs can help people connect with others who share their experiences, learn about hearing loss and its impact on cognitive health, and develop coping strategies.
Community-based programs can provide social support and educational resources to people with hearing loss. These programs can help people connect with others who share their experiences, learn about hearing loss and its impact on cognitive health, and develop coping strategies.
Community-based programs are often free or low-cost and can be a valuable resource for people with hearing loss.
These are just a few innovative approaches being used to address hearing loss and cognitive decline in ageing adults. As research in this area continues, we can expect to see even more effective and innovative solutions.
Our takeaway
While hearing aids have long been the cornerstone of addressing hearing loss, innovative approaches are expanding the options available to ageing individuals. Cognitive training, telehealth services, assistive technologies, and community-based programs are among the innovative approaches that offer promising solutions for hearing loss and cognitive decline.
By embracing these approaches, elders can enhance their quality of life, improve communication, and maintain cognitive function. It is essential for individuals experiencing hearing loss to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable combination of interventions and technologies to address their specific needs.
If you are concerned about hearing loss, don’t wait to get help. Contact Active Hearing Center today to schedule a free consultation. We can assess your hearing and recommend the best treatment for you.
At Active Hearing Center, we understand that hearing loss can significantly impact your life. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care and helping you to regain your hearing.
Our hearing care professionals will work with you to find the right solution for your needs. We offer a wide range of hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive technology devices. We also provide services like hearing tests, repairs, and adjustments.
We are here to help you live your best life with hearing loss. Contact us at 02-85230098 today to schedule a consultation.
