In a study conducted by Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, chief of the U.S. National Institute on Aging’s Longitudinal Studies Section, more than 36 percent of dementia risk was linked to hearing loss for participants 60 and older.
The worse the hearing loss, the worse the risk for Alzheimer’s as well. For every additional loss of 10 decibels of hearing capacity, Alzheimer’s risk appeared to go up by 20 percent, the researchers said. Dr. Richard B. Lipton, vice chair of neurology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, called the new study an “interesting” exploration that is predicated on “the widespread notion that chronological age may not be the best measure of biological age…There’s a lot of evidence that hearing loss is very socially isolating, just as there’s a lot of evidence that cognitive engagement protects against dementia. And that would mean that the loss of cognitive stimulation could itself contribute to the risk for Alzheimer’s.
Audiology & Hearing Aids of the Palm Beaches is here to help your patients. If your patient is experiencing any difficulty hearing, Dr. Dana Coveney, Au.D. would be delighted to evaluate their hearing. Dr. Coveney is committed to patient satisfaction, continuing education, and keeping up to date with the latest in hearing technology. This commitment has earned her a respected position in the audiology community. Audiology & Hearing Aids of the Palm Beaches is the only AudigyCertified practice in the Palm Beaches area – an exclusive endorsement awarded only to the nation’s top hearing care providers. Please remember to ask your patients if they are experiencing any difficulty hearing. Your referrals are appreciated.
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Source: http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/649896.html