What do hearing loss and lowered stress levels have in common? Reducing both can lead to healthier aging in the long run, including a decrease in cognitive decline.
Studies show that higher stress throughout life can lead to a greater chance of cognitive decline in one’s later years.
In honor of Healthy Aging Month this September, we want to invite you to take steps toward living a happier, healthier life, regardless of your current age. The sooner healthier habits take root, the better the chances that you can enjoy the things about life you love most for many decades to come.
The best place to start is with a few simple, easy-to-do activities that can give you an edge starting today:
- Make a habit of going on brisk walks throughout the week.
- Check in with your primary care provider if you have not had a physical exam in more than a year.
- Make an appointment if you notice changes in your ability to smell, taste or swallow. One study found that 69% of men and 59% of women older than 80 experienced difficulty smelling.
- Get a hearing test to get an edge on hearing loss, a progressive condition that can enhance the effects of cognitive decline in later years.
More research continues to show that there is indeed a strong link between hearing loss and cognitive decline. One such study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), concluded that individuals with untreated hearing loss had a 24% increase in cognitive decline.
Thankfully, hearing aids have been proven to help. A recent study published by the University of Melbourne reveals that 97% of study participants showed improvement in executive function, including their ability to plan, organize information and perform common everyday tasks.
Self-care is not selfish. When you lower your stress levels, enhance your ability to communicate with your loved ones and set time aside for activities that matter to you, everyone around you wins.
Remember that it’s never too early to stay proactive with your health and seek treatment as soon as possible—even if you show no obvious symptoms of hearing loss. A healthier, happier you could be as simple as taking a hearing test today.
Make an appointment with our team today.
“I came to be under Dr. Donovan's care during a medical emergency at the hospital. The care I received that day and in every interaction after, at Willamette ENT has been prompt, professional and very thorough. I feel very well cared for.”