Introductor Letter From Audiologists Dr. Keith Darrow Ph.D. & Sherina Samuel, Au.D.
“31 million people living with Diabetes are at an increased risk of developing Dementia and Hearing Loss.”
There are few certainties in life – aging is one of them. While we may not look forward to each passing birthday, the alternative (i.e. not having another birthday) is not a great option either. So, at the risk of sounding cheesy, live life to its fullest and cherish every moment – and take care of yourself.
The quote at the beginning of this document about the rates of hearing loss in patients with diabetes is perfect – because it uses the word ‘common’. Diabetes is not a normal part of aging. Dementia is not a normal part of aging. Cardiovascular disease and Cancer are not a normal part of aging. Neither is Age-Related Hearing Loss – a progressive degenerative disorder that profoundly impacts cognitive function. There is a difference between ‘common’ and ‘normal’ aspects of aging. The trick is knowing the difference between the two and knowing when to speak with your Physicians, Pharmacists, Oncologists and Audiologists when you are dealing with a disease that may be ‘common’, but still have a profound, negative, impact on your life. Each disorder listed above, from Diabetes to Hearing Loss, are more common as we age, but they are not normal. Each disease listed above is also treatable, with no available cure.
It is estimated that nearly 31 Million people live with Diabetes. Which means nearly every family has somebody who suffers from this disease. I have it in my family – I watched my father progress from diet and exercise, to pills, to injections. Each of these 31 Million people are at increased risk of developing hearing loss, and each of these individuals is at a 200-500% increased risk of developing cognitive decline and Dementia.
Diabetes is one of the many diseases that increase the risk of developing hearing loss. This is why all Excellence In Audiology member-clinics operate under the motto that Hearing Care Is Health Care. We understand the benefits of treating hearing loss on overall quality of life, improvements in cognitive function, and reducing the risk of developing the mind-robbing disease of Dementia.
In this report, I will highlight the research that explains the connections of Hearing Loss and Diabetes and include helpful tips on how to control Diabetes and how to treat hearing loss and the associated cognitive decline.
Sincerely,
Dr. Keith Darrow, Ph. D.
Sherina Samuel, B.Sc., M.Sc., Au.D.
