Hearing loss that causes dementia… Prevent it with ‘this habit’

Hearing loss is a health 'red alert.' It increases the risk of fractures from falls and dementia due to cognitive decline. Let's look at lifestyle habits that help prevent hearing loss.

 

◇ Hearing loss impairs brain function

 

Hearing loss also impairs brain function.

 

Among these, 'cognitive function,' which is associated with dementia, is the most significantly affected. The endless sound signals occurring in daily life continuously stimulate the brain. However, if hearing deteriorates, this process ceases. An overseas study evaluating cognitive function based on hearing in the population aged 50 and older found that cognitive function assessment scores significantly declined for every 10-decibel change in the hearing range.

There are also research findings. Disruptions in conversation due to hearing loss increase the risk of dementia. When people converse, they endlessly speak, listen, and think, stimulating the brain. However, if one cannot properly hear what the other person is saying, they end up avoiding conversation altogether.

◇ Set maximum volume to 60% or lower

 

Damaged hearing is difficult to reverse. Therefore, preventing hearing loss is the most important thing. The only way to prevent it is to avoid exposure to noise. To protect hearing, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends using portable audio devices at no more than 60% of the maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes per day. It is best to avoid using earphones in noisy outdoor environments, such as on public transportation, as this can cause users to increase the volume, potentially straining their ears. In noisy spaces, it is advisable to find a quiet area to rest your ears for at least 10 minutes every hour.

 

 

Alcohol, tobacco, and coffee can irritate the auditory nerves and affect blood vessel constriction, so their consumption should be avoided or reduced. Eating foods rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E is also helpful in preventing hearing loss. According to a study by Severance Hospital, among individuals aged 50 to 80, the group that consumed a large amount of vitamin C (top 25%) had better hearing than the group that consumed relatively less (bottom 25%).

 

 

Representative foods rich in Vitamin A include persimmons, spinach, and chives; Vitamin C is abundant in chili peppers, kiwis, and strawberries; and Vitamin E is found in large quantities in nuts and fish. It is also advisable to visit an ENT specialist and check the condition of your ears through regular hearing tests.

 

Meanwhile, if you suspect hearing loss, you should visit a hospital immediately and wear a hearing aid. The less hearing damage there is, the better the corrective effect of the hearing aid.

 

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The fact that hearing loss impairs brain function is

I didn't know that. Any part of the body

There is no place that isn't precious.

 

However, personally, I tend to neglect my ears a bit.

I also wonder if it is being managed.

 

The volume you usually use your phone with is also important, right?

 

Make sure to include Vitamin A foods in your diet often.