Helping Bedford Stay Connected: Hearing Care and Cognitive Health
- Bedford Online
- 37 minutes ago
- 2 min read
As a hearing instrument specialist here in Bedford, I read with great interest the recent JAMA study showing that up to 32% of dementia cases could be tied to hearing loss when tested audiometrically. What strikes me most is that when people don’t realize how much they’re missing in sound, their brain works much harder just to understand speech, to follow conversations, to distinguish noise. That constant extra effort seems to take a toll and it can lead to social isolation, fatigue, and frustration, all of which are known factors that feed into cognitive decline over time.
In our clinic in Bedford, I see this all the time. Patients who waited too long to treat their hearing loss often tell me they’ve “just stopped trying” in groups or don’t ask people to repeat themselves anymore. They sometimes say they feel “left behind” in conversations. I believe that the damage done by untreated hearing loss isn’t just about missing sounds, it’s about missing connection, missing moments that keep the mind engaged. Helping someone hear clearly again almost always brings relief, and I truly believe it can help slow or lessen cognitive decline.
The good news is, there are things everyone can do starting now. First, get your hearing screened and don’t wait for someone else to notice you’re having trouble. If you do have measurable hearing loss, ask about modern hearing aids; technology has come a long way in clarity, comfort, and usefulness. Also, stay socially active — talk, laugh, read, listen to music. And protect your ears from very loud sounds; over time, noise damage adds up. These steps aren’t guarantees, but they go a long way toward keeping your brain stimulated and connected.
At Beltone Bedford, we’re committed to helping people not just hear but stay close to the things they love like conversations, family, nature, music. If you or a loved one is having trouble hearing, please come in, let us help. Hearing isn’t just about sound — it’s part of staying present, staying engaged, and keeping your mind strong.
Greg Inabnit, Beltone Hearing Instrument Specialist
Greg has been helping people hear better since joining Beltone in 2018. After earning his Hearing Instrument Specialist certification that same year, he discovered a true passion for improving lives through better hearing. His dedication to patient care has earned him recognition as a Beltone Master Hearing Aid Practitioner.