More evidence is emerging that shows the human brain’s ability to adapt to change. For example, new research indicates that hearing aids may be able to reverse brain changes caused by hearing loss.
What Does Neuroplasticity Mean? 
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt by forming new neural connections throughout life. These changes can be due to receiving new information or in response to disease or damage, among other things.
People who have hearing loss may experience changes in brain structure or function as a result of their condition.
Hearing Loss Changes Your Brain
When you have hearing loss, your brain misses out on sounds you were once able to hear. The areas of the brain that process these sounds end up not getting the stimulation they are used to.
As a result, those parts of the brain may shrink or be recruited by other areas of the brain that are responsible for vision and touch.
Additionally, people who struggle to hear often isolate themselves from others. It can be exhausting when you struggle to follow conversations. Hearing loss can make enjoyable activities, like going out to dinner at Cotogna, feel overwhelming instead.
The problem is, when you avoid engaging with others it deprives your brain of even more stimulation. This can lead to both worsening hearing loss and possible cognitive decline.
Hearing Aids May Reverse Brain Changes
A study conducted in 2020 tested the cognitive function of 28 adults with mild to moderate age-related hearing loss against 13 adults with normal hearing.
Participants were evaluated once while their hearing loss was untreated, then given hearing aids to wear for six months before being evaluated again.
The baseline exam showed that participants with hearing loss had evidence of recruitment during a visual processing task. They also had poorer speech perception and worse cognitive function than those with normal hearing.
Yet after six months of regular hearing aid use, these same participants showed a reversal of recruitment, as well as improved speech perception and cognitive performance.
Enjoy All the Benefits of Hearing Aids
If you are having trouble with your hearing, it’s essential to make an appointment with an audiologist as soon as possible. By treating your hearing loss with hearing aids not only are you helping your brain process sound, but you are also decreasing your risk of developing cognitive decline.
However, the benefits of hearing aids go beyond even that. They can include:
- Lower levels of anxiety and depression
- Improved balance and physical health
- Increased confidence in social situations
- Better relationships
- Improved ability to focus
With all these benefits, treating your hearing loss becomes a no-brainer. Contact San Francisco Audiology today to make an appointment with one of our experts.