Hearing loss is common among seniors in the US and has been linked to a higher risk of dementia, although the exact reasons are not completely clear.
To investigate this link further, scientists conducted hearing tests and brain scans using MRI to see if hearing problems are associated with differences in specific brain regions.
Let's see what they've found.
How it was discovered
In a new experiment, the researchers found that participants with hearing impairment showed differences in certain areas of the brain.
These differences were observed in the auditory regions of the temporal lobe, the frontal cortex involved in speech and language processing, and the areas responsible for executive function.
Now we know that hearing problems may lead to changes in brain areas involved in sound processing and attention.
To protect the brain and minimize the risk of dementia, interventions such as using subtitles or speech-to-text apps, wearing hearing aids, and engaging in conversations in quiet environments rather than noisy spaces could be beneficial.
A total of 130 people underwent hearing tests in 2003-2005 and then had MRI scans in 2014-2016 for this specific analysis.
Why it's important to know
The results highlight the significance of protecting people's hearing by avoiding prolonged exposure to loud sounds, using hearing protection when exposed to loud tools, and minimizing the use of medications that can be harmful to hearing.
