The Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter will partner with Delaware Speech & Hearing Center to offer a program focusing on the connection between dementia and hearing loss.
The program, Dementia and Hearing Loss, is being offered free to the community and will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Delaware Speech & Hearing Center, located at 494 W. Central Ave. in Delaware.
Preregistration is required. To register for this program, call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.
“We are so grateful to the Delaware Speech & Hearing Center for partnering with us to present this important program,” said Pam Myers, program director for the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter. “There are several research studies that are connecting dementia and hearing loss. The cause for the linkage is unknown; some think it may be due to the fact that people who have hearing loss tend to be less social and become isolated. We do know that less social engagement does impact cognitive decline.”
Participants will learn more about Alzheimer’s and all other forms of dementia, as well as the correlation between dementia and hearing loss. The presentation will be followed by free hearing screenings from 2-3 p.m. Masks are required.
“There is so much we have yet to learn about Alzheimer’s and other dementia, but the more we know, the more action we can take to reduce our risks,” Myers said. “Please join us to discuss the ties between hearing loss and dementia to learn what it means for your family.”
Hearing impairment is among several modifiable risk factors that are currently being researched with respect to their association with Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association 2022 “Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures.” Other factors being researched include inadequate sleep or poor sleep quality, excessive alcohol use and depression.
Those concerned about themselves or a loved one can contact the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter office at 614-457-6003 to schedule a care consultation and be connected to local resources that can help.
