Between hectic schedules and the disruptions of events, it’s all too easy to put off essential 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.
Neglected hearing loss can lead to a higher risk of cognitive decline
A clear link between mental decline and untreated hearing loss has been demonstrated by scientists and researchers. This underscores the crucial importance of not delaying treatment, as it can have negative effects on your mental function too.
Hearing loss will get worse if it goes untreated
Obviously, it’s evident that putting off treatment for hearing loss isn’t conducive to preserving your auditory health. You unintentionally cause more harm to your hearing if you delay getting a hearing exam or hearing aids if you need them.
The progression of your hearing loss will be quickened if you continuously need to crank up the volume on your devices. Using a hearing aid can help mitigate this by selectively amplifying particular frequencies, thereby delaying the advancement of hearing loss.
The link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive function
Your brain and your hearing are closely connected. Research shows that neglected hearing loss can have significant repercussions on cognitive function. Over time, cognitive decline can be worsened by depression and anxiety brought on by social separation.
Also, the recovery of normal hearing function can be complicated because untreated hearing loss will force the brain to adapt by reallocating mental resources from other functions, such as visual processes, over to auditory processes.
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 recovery, sustained neglected hearing loss can lead to considerable rewiring of the brain, making it challenging to revert to previous functionality.
However, it isn’t impossible to undo these effects. In both the short and the long term, making use of hearing aids can bring significant benefits even if you’ve held off on getting treatment for some time.
Give us a call for an appointment
You should obviously find treatment as soon as you can, but even if you’ve delayed for a while, it’s not too late to get help. Scheduling an appointment with us as soon as possible is crucial, ensuring you can enjoy better hearing and cognitive function moving forward. Call today!