Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Improved Hearing For A Healthy Mind

Did you know that better hearing might be a key to better brain health? A growing body of research ties hearing loss to cognitive-decline problems such as dementia. So, let’s take a look at the connections and the importance of regular hearing care.

Both dementia and hearing loss are on the rise. An estimated 55 million people live with dementia, per the World Health Organization, which predicts the rate will reach 139 million in 2025. Hearing loss, estimated at over 1.5 billion youth and adults worldwide, could climb to over 2.5 billion people by 2050.

Older adults with more severe forms of hearing loss have a significantly higher risk of dementia, according to a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health-led study released this year. Researchers uncovered a 61% greater prevalence of dementia compared to those with normal hearing.

The study adds to ever-increasing reports on links between hearing loss and significant dementia risk. It stands apart from some other investigations by having relied not only on in-clinic data but also home-based information — including testing and interviews — comprising a more nationally representative population across a 65-plus age group.

Like a rising number of studies, the findings also showed potential benefits of better hearing in curbing the dementia threat. According to the investigators, hearing aid use was associated with a 32% lower prevalence of dementia among those with moderate or severe hearing loss.

It’s not quite conclusive that hearing aids prevent or reverse dementia — future research will continue to probe the issue. But it looks promising. In an online report, the investigation’s lead author stated, “This study refines what we’ve observed about the link between hearing loss and dementia and builds support for public health action to improve hearing care access.”

What can you do? Staying sharp and engaged is easier than you think and starts with regular hearing screenings. Whether your hearing seems to be changing or it’s simply been a while since your last checkup, contact our caring team for an evaluation today!

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always here to answer your important hearing care questions. Please contact us today at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Revolutionizing Healthcare: 3 Pros And Cons Of Telemedicine

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Telemedicine is an approach to healthcare delivery that I find fascinating. Through the use of technology, you can receive medical care and support from anywhere in the world, making it easier to access care regardless of location or mobility challenges! It’s truly amazing.

One of the greatest benefits of telemedicine is its ability to provide patients with quality medical care, even for chronic conditions and mental health issues. As someone who has dealt with a few recent health issues, I appreciate the convenience of being able to talk to a doctor from the comfort of my own home without driving through a Colorado blizzard!

I also think one relatively untapped area for telemedicine is for mental health support. What if you just feel too bad to dress, or drive to your psychiatrist? I can see how virtual appointments could help a person in need receive important counseling when they otherwise couldn’t drive there.

Telemedicine appointments exploded during the pandemic, and even now years later, it’s not without challenges. Limited broadband/ wifi access and difficulties understanding how to connect to your appointment can make it difficult for some people to access telemedicine services. I’m thinking of my elderly parents who still can’t turn on a computer, no less connect to wifi!

Legal and regulatory barriers can also be a challenge, as telemedicine is subject to different rules and regulations in different jurisdictions. Plus, you can’t do a pap smear, ear wax removal or dental exam without being there in person! Despite these challenges, I believe that telemedicine has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve the lives of patients around the world.

I know a lot of people reading this might not like how fast the world is moving, and all of the digital technology, but let’s face it, by embracing telemedicine, medical care becomes available to more people, regardless of their circumstances.

In summary, here are three potential pros and cons of telemedicine:

Pros:

1. Improved access to care: Telemedicine makes it easier for patients to receive medical care, regardless of their location or disabilities.

2. Convenience: Telemedicine allows you to see a doctor without having to travel long distances, or sit in a germy clinic.

3. Cost savings: Remote support is often cheaper (and faster) than in-person doctor’s visits.

Cons:

1. Computer difficulties: Having a good wifi connection and a computer with a camera and mic, it’s harder. Also, there are inevitably computer glitches depending on what app and platform you use to connect.

2. Legal and regulatory barriers: Telemedicine is subject to different rules and regulations in different jurisdictions, which can create challenges for patients and healthcare providers.

3. Privacy concerns: If you are not alone during the time of your zoom appointment for telemedicine, others will hear you discussing your medical problems. This is embarrassing for some people.

I’ve written a longer version of this article and have practical advice for practitioners who want to start offering telemedicine services. To read that, please visit my website, suzycohen.com.” diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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Residential Dementia & Alzheimer’s Community

Toss Those Reading Glasses

Presbyopia is the condition that makes it difficult for people approaching middleage to focus on objects close to their eyes. Because the lenses in their eyes are hardening, reading, texting, and writing all become more difficult. Reading glasses can be used to solve this problem, but for many, the annoyance of constantly misplacing glasses or not having them at hand when needed could make a surgical option attractive. “Raindrop Near Vision Inlay” (Raindrop Surgery) inserts a tiny, transparent disc under the cornea of one eye (the less dominant eye) to slightly increase the cornea’s cone shape. The goal is to improve near vision without damaging far sight. With little discomfort, the procedure is can be done in about ten minutes.

The inlay procedure is simple. First, you will get a complete eye exam to ensure you are a good candidate. Your ophthalmologist will then have you wear a contact lens in your nondominant eye for five days, to determine if you can get used to the prescription difference in near and far vision. If this process works well for you, your surgery will be scheduled. SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES offers a full range of care for your eyes, from yearly vision exams to the treatment of medical eye conditions. To make an appointment, please call 732-349-5622.

P.S. If near and distance vision are both problematic, LASIK can be performed at the same time as the Raindrop procedure.