Hearing loss and dementia
By Mary Malik
Untreated hearing loss can be fatiguing, frustrating and lead to feelings of loneliness, social isolation, stress and depression. Landmark longitudinal studies by Frank Lin, Ph.D., and his team at Johns Hopkins have found that hearing loss is the largest modifiable risk factor for dementia. Their research showed that as the degree of hearing loss worsens, so does the severity of dementia. Imaging studies have even indicated that the rate of brain atrophy is more rapid in those with untreated loss.
“Many of our patients tell us they are too young to get hearing aids, that hearing aids will make them older, but it’s our relationships and interactions with others that keeps us young,” says Sarah Curtis, Au.D., founder of Sounds of Life Hearing Center. “The inability to hear clearly, or hear at all, can result in a person removing themselves from situations that require them to successfully hear and communicate. I’ve seen patients stop going to church and family gatherings.”
The audiologists at Sounds of Life (Dr. Curtis, Dr. Cara Donovan and Dr. Morgan Faldowski) are dedicated to continuing education and practice evidence-based, best-practice comprehensive hearing care and management. Their services include hearing evaluations, hearing aids, tinnitus evaluation and treatment, wax removal and more.
“When a patient has a loss best treated with hearing aids, we use measurements and techniques that ensure a truly rehabilitative fit, which results in excellent outcomes. We know that success in treating hearing loss relies not only on great technology, but also on a skilled audiologist programming, counseling and providing follow-up care.”
Sounds of Life wants you to know it charges fairly for its services and products, and that it provides excellent care that far surpasses the minimum applied by others—often at a significantly lower price.
Sounds of Life Hearing Center is located at 8007 Auburn Road, Suite 1, in Concord Township. For more information call 440-579-4085 or visit SoundsOfLifeHC.com.