Dr. Izzy’s Sound News

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

Improved Hearing For A Healthy Mind

Did you know 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 look at the connections and the importance of regular hearing care.

Both dementia and hearing loss are on the rise. Over 55 million people live with dementia, per the World Health Organization, which also estimates that 10 million new cases develop annually. Hearing loss is estimated at over 1.5 billion youth and adults worldwide and may climb to over 2.5 billion 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 earlier this year. Researchers uncovered a 61% greater prevalence of dementia compared to those with normal hearing.

The study:

• Adds to ever-increasing reports on connections between hearing loss and significant dementia risk across the global community.

• Stands apart from some other investigations by comprising a more nationally representative 65-plus population.

• Joins an expanding number of other reports showing potential benefits of improved hearing in helping curb the threat of cognitive decline.

According to the study’s investigators, hearing aid use was associated with a 32% lower prevalence of dementia among those with moderate or severe hearing loss. Good news in reinforcing the importance of addressing 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 Garden State Hearing for an evaluation today. This evaluation also includes a “cognition screening” called COGNIVUE which is free of charge.

Ready to see how AI can help your hearing? Contact Garden State Hearing & Balance Center at 732818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstate hearing.com.

9 Health Wearables, Implants And Stick-On Devices

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Have you ever wished for a discreet little health detective or a stick-on buddy to keep an eye on your vital signs? Wearable technology has become an integral part of our lives now! The secret sauce that makes these things work is AI technology, as in artificial Intelligence. I’ve sorted these wearables by condition:

1. Heart Health and Blood Pressure

Apple Watch - This handy wristwatch monitors your heart rate, can detect irregular heart rhythms, and even boasts an FDA-approved ECG app. This brand is popular, but pricey due to all the other features it has. Get it at the Apple store or online.

Withings BPM Core - It measures blood pressure, and ECG and even listens to your heart via a digital stethoscope! You can buy it at Withings’ official website, Amazon, and other online retailers.

Abbott’s Implantable Cardioverter

Defibrillator - This monitors heart rhythms and can deliver life-saving therapy, however, it’s implantable so you need to have a minor surgical procedure to use it.

Fitbit - Super popular! It’s affordable and it comes in lots of styles. This fitness tracker continuously tracks your ticker, as well as blood oxygen levels and skin temperature.

VitalPatch RTM - This is like a stick-on patch that provides cardiac monitoring and you can ask your physician about it since it is not OTC. There’s more information at vitalconnect.com

2. Diabetes and Glucose Monitoring

Trying to monitor blood glucose for diabetes, hypoglycemia or metabolic syndrome? Here are your best contenders for monitoring:

Dexcom G6 - This stick-on device provides real-time continuous glucose monitoring and the readings go to your smartphone. The sensor needs replacing every 10 days and you’ll need a physician’s order to buy this. Abbott Freestyle Libre Glucose MonitorA skin patch that allows you to continuously check your glucose levels without constant finger-pricking! It requires a physician’s order too.

3. Emergencies and Devices That Provide a Lifeline

When it comes to emergency situations, every second counts. Here are devices that can provide that crucial lifeline when needed: Medical Guardian – Mini Guardian - It’s like a necklace with a fall alert system, GPS location tracking, and two-way communication with the company’s 24/7 help center. Think of it as wearing a ‘panic button’ in case of crisis. It requires a monthly subscription, but no prescription is needed.

4. Hearables

We have new OTC hearing aids termed “hearables” and these may help someone with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Here is just one of several good ones: Jabra Enhance Plus - This device stands out with impressive amplification and sound quality, making it ideal for listening to music and podcasts. It can be self-customized to your hearing loss and can toggle between amplifying surrounding sounds, playing audio, or both. No prescription is required. I hope this roundup helps you navigate the exciting world of health wearables. If you’d like more options and information about this topic, visit my website to read the longer, comprehensive article posted at suzycohen.com.