The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders, or ACHIEVE, study is a large-scale randomized controlled trial designed to determine if treating hearing loss in older adults could reduce the loss of thinking and memory abilities (cognitive decline) that can precede dementia. The ACHIEVE study also looks at other health outcomes, including mental health and well-being, physical function, and health care use. THE STUDY FINDINGS: In older adults at increased risk for cognitive decline, hearing intervention (HEARING AIDS) slowed down loss of thinking and memory abilities by 48% over 3 years.
Hearing and Cognitive Health
Sound has the ability to stimulate the brain, which is why hearing loss has the potential to have profound effect on the health of older adults. Studies have shown that older adults with hearing loss have a greater risk of developing dementia. Cognitive abilities, including concentration and memory, decline faster in those adults with hearing loss. Social isolation and loneliness are related to health outcomes like dementia. Therefore, treating hearing loss may be more important than once thought.
Life Changing Technology
What if there was a hearing aid that understood what you wanted to listen to? Now there is: Introducing Oticon Intent™ Hear more clearly, stay more engaged, and enjoy life fully. Feel confident in every moment. From navigating the room, having an intimate conversation or talking to a group of friends. Oticon Intent helps keep your mind focused, alert and engaged with what matters most. We incorporate information from head and body movement, conversation activity and the acoustic environment into the world’s first 4D Sensor technology. Engage in life like never before with the world's first user intent-sensors.
Wireless Connectivity
Bluetooth technology now allows most hearing devices to connect directly to the patient’s smartphone. This allows the patients hearing aids to essentially become a wireless headset. These hearing devices offer an extensive range of connectivity options to support a high-quality listening experience. Along with enhanced connectivity comes the ability to control your hearing aids through an app on your phone. This allows for easy and discreet control over the hearing aids. The app can allow patients to personalize their listening experience via the new streaming equalizer that enables them to fine-tune the sound when streaming music or a movie. It also allows them to adjust volume, switch programs, check battery level and more, all from the palm of their hand.
Rechargeable Solutions
Many hearing devices now come in rechargeable options. New lithium-ion batteries allow patients to recharge their hearing aids in as little as 3 hours. After a full day of use, patients can just place their hearing devices into the charger and they will be ready to go for the next day. There is also a portable charging option which is designed to be easy to use both at home and on the go. The portable charger’s lid serves as protection, a dryer and storage for the hearing aids. The rechargeable built-in lithium-ion battery makes it possible to use it as a power bank, when no power supply is available.
FDA’s New Rule on OTC Hearing Aids
A new rule issued by the FDA after President Biden signed an Executive Order took effect in October 2022. This rule essentially establishes a new category of hearing aids for consumers with PERCEIVED mild to moderate hearing loss. It allows adults to purchase hearing aids from some retail, grocery, chain stores and even online without the need for a medical exam or prescription. Most experts still consider a consultation with a licensed professional a critical component of ensuring good hearing health and consumer protection. Studies have shown that people tend to underestimate their hearing loss. Hearing loss most often occurs gradually so what some perceive as a mild to moderate hearing loss may actually be quite a severe hearing loss. Something else to note when seeking information is that some of the lower end cost devices coming on the market may function primarily as nothing more than personal amplifiers. Most of these products are likely to provide some help but it’s also possible to have an untreated medical condition that may be able to be cleared up by seeking a professional. To be better informed, seek a healthcare professional for a hearing assessment and further counseling to help educate yourself.