THE IMPACT OF HEARING LOSS ON DEMENTIA.

Studies now substantiate the claim that adults with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia than those with hearing in normal ranges. On a positive note, treating hearing loss at the earliest onset and with more aggressive measures may stave off dementia. The aggressive treatment is typically cochlear implants and auditory rehabilitation.

Speculation still exists as to how the two issues are linked, but popular theories are:

1. Those with hearing loss isolate themselves socially due to the strain of conversation with the condition.
2. Your brain works harder to process sounds therefore using up resources that could be allocated to other brain activity.
3. Less overall brain activity because of the decline in signals to the brain from the ears.

How does this affect estate planning? At the first signs of hearing impairment, consider drafting a dementia-specific health directive. The main focus of such a planning tool provides information on how the patient’s care will progress through specific stages of the disease.

For more information on Elder Law and Estate Planning in the Baltimore area, contact Stouffer Legal at 443-470-3599.