June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. We want to focus on raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and brain health this month. A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and taking care of your hearing health plays a positive role as well, as untreated hearing loss can make you more susceptible to cognitive decline. Below is more information from your local audiologist in Omaha, NE, on Alzheimer’s, the brain and hearing loss, as well as ways you can reduce your risk of developing either.

Alzheimer’s, the brain and hearing loss

When your brain has to focus more on what’s being said, it’s less likely you will retain and remember that information. Your brain comprehends the sounds that come into your ears and filters them into words and information that you can understand, remember and react to. Your ears have to be able to hear and transmit information to your brain correctly for you to hear it right away and remember it later on.

How you can reduce the risk of cognitive decline

As we age, there are certain things we cannot avoid, but adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or delay cognitive decline. More than six million Americans have Alzheimer’s. As the number of people who develop some sort of dementia will only increase over time, it’s important to know about it and understand it, as well as take necessary steps to reduce the risk of it.

Exercising regularly helps increase the blood flow to our brains, which can prolong good memory and thinking. You should also keep your heart healthy, as good blood pressure reduces the development of declining cognitive conditions. Eating healthy also plays an important role; make sure to include fruits, berries, vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains and fish in your diet as they both improve cognitive functioning and heart health.

Establishing a good sleep routine helps you physically and psychologically; aim for seven hours a night. Staying socially active with friends and family supports cognitive health; you should also put yourself to the test sometimes by trying something new such as strategy games or learning a new language or instrument.

How you can reduce your risk of developing hearing loss

Hearing loss puts more strain on your brain and is attributed to 8% of dementia cases. Simple things like turning down the sound and wearing ear protection can help you hear better for longer. If you have any signs of hearing loss, you should seek treatment right away to prevent any further damage. If you use hearing aids, you should always wear them where recommended.

Common signs your hearing loss may be affecting your memory include: feelings of forgetfulness, repeatedly asking the same questions, feeling lost in places you were once familiar with, a hard time following directions and confusion related to time, people and places.

Visit an audiologist in Omaha, NE

Visiting an audiologist in Omaha, NE, has its benefits, and one of them includes prolonging your memory. Getting a hearing test early on in life can notify you of any possible hearing loss so you can begin treating it before it gets worse. Contact us today to see how we can help!