Hearing is essential to not only helping us to communicate but to also keep our brain healthy too. Latest research shows that untreated hearing loss is actually a risk factor when it comes to developing dementia.

Dementia is a growing problem in the UK with more than 850,000 people currently living there who are affected by it. The number will grow to 1 million within three years and considering preventative measures has never been so important! A hearing aid expert shared how they can “significantly” lower your risk for dementia as well help slow down cognitive decline if worn regularly.

A number of studies, including by a team at the University College London, found there is a link between dementia and difficulty in hearing speech in a busy environment.

For those who also have a visual impairment as well as hearing loss, a study by the University of Washington in the US indicates they are nearly twice as likely to develop dementia than those without.

This is because the decline in senses could increase social isolation and place strain on the parts of the brain which are required for good cognitive function.

While hearing loss can often be a result of age, research shows the increased risk of dementia was not found in those using hearing aids.

Furthermore, another study looking into those with hearing impairments found that hearing aids could actually help delay dementia onset by five years.

Common signs of hearing loss include:

• difficulty hearing other people clearly and misunderstanding what they say, especially in noisy places
• asking people to repeat themselves
• listening to music or watching TV with the volume higher than other people need
• difficulty hearing on the phone
• finding it hard to keep up with a conversation
• feeling tired or stressed from having to concentrate while listening

Sometimes someone else might notice problems with your hearings before you do.