Stress, fatigue, certain illnesses, and medications can occasionally impact our memory. However, for those who are over 65 and struggle with increasing forgetfulness, consulting a GP to discuss the possibility of dementia may be wise.
Research indicates that in the UK, over 944,000 individuals live with dementia, affecting one in every 11 people above the age of 65, and this number continues to rise as the population lives longer.
Dementia is characterised by a steady decline in brain function, manifesting in symptoms like memory loss, impaired cognitive speed and mental acuity, issues with language, comprehension, and judgment.
Multiple diseases can contribute to dementia, including the irregular accumulation of proteins in the brain. However, ITV’s Lorraine regular and NHS doctor, Amir Khan, highlights one action that may lower the risk of developing dementia: checking one’s hearing.
During his recent appearance on the programme, which was shared to TikTok, Dr Khan urged viewers to conduct this crucial check to potentially reduce their risk. Although certain risk factors such as age and genetics cannot be altered, he believes there are measures people can take to decrease their susceptibility.
He advised: “The first thing I would say is get your hearing checked. Don’t wait until you’ve really lost your hearing.
“Mid-life hearing loss, that’s aged between 45 and 65, has been associated with a higher risk of dementia. So when your hearing goes down, your brain has to work harder to process speech and noises, and that diverts energy away from other things like memory and thinking.”
Dr Khan points out that those who struggle with their hearing often “retreat from conversations”, leading to potential loneliness and depression, both of which are known to increase the risk of dementia.
He added: “And actually scans show people with untreated hearing loss have higher levels of brain shrinkage in areas associated with memory and processing as well. So this is a bit of a call to arms. If you’re 45 plus, you should really have your hearing checked.”
The Alzheimer’s Society also highlights that individuals who encounter hearing issues during mid-life (40-65) face a heightened risk of developing dementia, and it can be an early indicator of the condition.
They advise: “To reduce the risk of dementia, it’s important to get your hearing tested. There is some evidence that using hearing aids may reduce risk of some aspects of cognitive decline.”
They remind us: “Remember that hearing loss is only a risk factor and does not mean that a person with hearing loss will develop dementia.”
Research has additionally revealed that those who utilise hearing aids for their hearing loss are less likely to suffer from dementia.
You might have the option to arrange a complimentary hearing test at your local optician, or you could discuss a referral to an audiologist with your GP.
If you do experience any symptoms of dementia, it’s always advisable to consult with your GP.
