Amidst hectic schedules and the distractions of events, it’s all too easy to put off important appointments, like those with a hearing specialist or for a hearing aid fitting. You might not even get around to shopping for hearing aids whatsoever. However, putting off on treatment for hearing loss is far more than just a misstep concerning your ears alone.
The link to mental decline
A clear link between mental decline and neglected hearing loss has been established by scientists and researchers. This underscores the critical importance of not delaying treatment, as it can have adverse effects on your brain function too.
The impact on hearing
If you care about the health of your hearing, it’s essential to never disregard any symptoms of hearing loss. By avoiding appointments with a hearing specialist or holding off on the purchase of hearing aids, you inadvertently subject your ears to further damage.
The progression of your hearing loss will be quickened if you constantly need to crank up the volume on your devices. Hearing aids can amplify specific frequencies of sound thereby delaying the progression of hearing loss.
The connection to cognitive function
Your brain and your hearing are intricately connected. Research shows that neglected hearing loss can have significant consequences on cognitive function. Over time, mental decline can be worsened by depression and anxiety brought on by social isolation.
Furthermore, long-term neglected hearing loss causes the brain to adapt by reallocating resources from auditory processing to other functions, such as visual processing, potentially complicating the recovery of normal hearing function later on.
Navigating neuroplasticity
In this scenario, neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt, can be both a friend and a foe. While it allows for flexibility and restoration, prolonged neglected hearing loss can result in considerable rewiring of the brain, making it challenging to return to previous functionality.
But it is possible to undo this effect. In spite of previous delays in seeking treatment, utilizing hearing aids as prescribed by a specialist can still deliver significant benefits in both the short and long term.
Schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist
You should obviously seek treatment as soon as possible, but even if you’ve put off for a while, it’s not too late to get help. If you’re ready to enjoy improved hearing and stronger cognitive function, call us today for an assessment!