Cognitive decline refers to a gradual decrease in mental abilities, such as memory, attention, language, reasoning, and problem-solving. This decline may be a normal part of aging or could indicate underlying health issues, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Cognitive decline can range from mild, where daily functioning remains relatively intact, to severe, significantly impacting an individual’s ability to perform routine activities independently.

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Preventing Cognitive Decline How Hearing Aids May Help Older Adults Square

Preventing Cognitive Decline: How Hearing Aids May Help Older Adults

Cognitive decline is an umbrella term used to describe both Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Dementia. According to the Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, an estimated 12.23 million people in the United States were living with MCI in 2020, and this number is expected to grow to 21.55 million by the year 2060. Additionally, 6.07 million people were living with Alzheimer’s Disease (a type of Dementia) in 2020, and the number of people afflicted will grow to 13.85 million by the year 20601. While there are a variety of risk factors for developing MCI and Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia, hearing loss has grown to become known as one of the most significant, modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline in older age.