Older people with hearing loss often wait a long time before acquiring a hearing aid. This can have serious consequences, such as an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr Ahmad Al Shamsi, a leading ENT specialist from Abu Dhabi, warns about this. Hearing is vital for a healthy life.
Hearing loss in later life often restricts physical and mental activities, leading to isolation in older adults. Reduced brain activity negatively impacts both physical and mental health. It raises the risk of devoloping dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr Al Shamsi refers in this context to several studies, such as those from the renowned Johns Hopkins Medicine (USA).
Hearing aids are an important aid for any age group in the case of hearing loss, but this is especially true for older people. The ENT specialist recommends buying a hearing aid without delay, as it improves quality of life and helps prevent social isolation.
Dr Ahmad Al Shamsi is an ENT specialist, otologist and cochlear implant surgeon in Abu Dhabi. He shared these insights in an interview with the Khaleej Times.
(Photo provided for illustrative purposes)
