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Could addressing hearing loss be a key factor in preventing Alzheimer's? Dr. Young Trinh joins us to tackle this critical question, sharing a deeply personal narrative from the final days of the Vietnam War. We examine the shortcomings of our reactive healthcare system and discuss the urgent need for a shift towards preventive care and early detection, particularly in the realm of Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Trinh recounts his transition from a general internist to a focused dementia care practitioner, driven by his firsthand experiences with the inadequacies of current Alzheimer's treatment and prevention. We highlight the crucial role of primary care physicians in integrating memory assessments and preventive measures into regular health check-ups. By addressing the 12 modifiable risk factors identified by the Lancet in 2020, we can make significant strides in Alzheimer's prevention. Our discussion calls for a proactive approach to healthcare, emphasizing the need to prioritize prevention just as we do for heart disease and cancer.

In our final discussion, we explore the profound impact of lifestyle changes on reducing Alzheimer's risk, with a particular focus on managing hearing loss and other modifiable factors. Dr. Trinh sheds light on the latest advancements in Alzheimer's treatments, including anti-amyloid medications, and the importance of early intervention. We end on a heartfelt note, reflecting on the importance of community and support in this journey, eagerly anticipating future meet-ups to continue this vital conversation. Join us for an episode filled with insights, expert advice, and a call to action for better Alzheimer's care and prevention.

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Join us for an enlightening discussion with Dr. Hannah Glick, an esteemed audiologist and cognitive neuroscientist from the University of Northern Colorado. Dr. Glick breaks down the intricate differences between hearing and listening, emphasizing how listening involves complex tasks like understanding speech amidst background noise. We also delve into how speech in noise tests might better correlate with cognitive function than traditional pure tone measures, challenging long-held conventions in auditory health.

Ever wondered if the common definition of "normal" hearing misses the mark? We tackle this question by scrutinizing the limitations of pure tone screenings, which often do not reflect real-world hearing challenges. Dr. Glick advocates for comprehensive audiometric evaluations and endorses speech in noise testing for early intervention. This nuanced approach aims not just to improve one's hearing but to enhance overall well-being, from social interactions to mental health. We also explore the potential of hearing handicap inventories as a more accurate measure of functional hearing impairment, calling for more meaningful patient conversations about auditory health.

Could wearing hearing aids actually boost your cognitive abilities? We investigate compelling studies, including the ACHIEVE study and Dr. Sarant's ENHANCE study, which link hearing aid use to improvements in cognitive function and even anatomical changes in the brain. Dr. Glick shares her own groundbreaking findings, which indicate significant cognitive benefits for adults at risk of mild cognitive impairment who use hearing aids. We round off the episode with an exploration of reminiscence therapy, spotlighting how recalling past experiences and lifelong learning can build cognitive resilience and stave off cognitive decline. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the powerful intersection between auditory health and cognitive well-being.

Interested in hearing aids or want to find a hearing care professional? Click here to find a hearing care professional near you. 

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Can tinnitus and hearing loss be considered symptoms of the same neurological process/disorder? Dr. Keith Darrow, a neuroscientist and audiologist, joins us to challenge conventional wisdom about these conditions. As we explore his insights, you'll learn how the progressive breakdown of neural connections from the ear to the brain not only causes hearing difficulties and sensitivity to loud sounds but also leads to tinnitus and more.. Groundbreaking research from MIT addresses cochlear deafferentation, expanding our understanding of these complex issues 

Is it time to rethink how we classify hearing loss? Our conversation with Dr. Darrow uncovers the inadequacies of current classifications, which often use terms like "mild" and "slight" which downplay the seriousness. of hearing loss.  Dr. Darrow proposes using more precise metrics such as the  most-challenging four-frequency pure tone average and speech-in-noise ability and more, to provide a clearer picture of one's hearing health. By framing hearing loss as a progressive, chronic neurological condition, akin to diabetes or Parkinson's, we can develop better descriptions, management and treatment strategies.

Dr. Darrow advocates for a holistic, early and effective approach to detecting, diagnosing and treating hearing and listening difficulties. 

Join us as we explore the evolving nature of scientific inquiry, with Dr. Darrow highlighting the importance of continual refinement and openness to new perspectives, ensuring better outcomes for those affected by hearing loss and tinnitus.

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Can outdated criteria be holding back modern medical advancements? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Jace Wolfe, Senior Vice President of Innovation at the Oberkotter Foundation, to explore the revolutionary changes in cochlear implant technology and the urgent need to update the FDA criteria. Dr. Wolfe sheds light on how far we've come from the past two decades, emphasizing that with the right audiometric thresholds, cochlear implants can dramatically improve speech recognition compared to traditional hearing aids.

Discover the extraordinary impact of the Oberkotter Foundation and its subsidiary, Hearing First, in transforming pediatric audiology. We honor the groundbreaking work of Marion Downs and her relentless advocacy for early newborn hearing screening. Dr. Wolfe shares the inspiring mission of the foundation, dedicated to helping children with hearing loss achieve their full potential, while also pushing for more progressive cochlear implant candidacy guidelines to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

Finally, navigate through the complexities of different hearing technologies with Dr. Wolfe as your guide. From the life-changing benefits of bone-anchored hearing aids for patients with chronic ear conditions to the advances in frequency lowering technology for those with high-frequency hearing loss, this episode offers a comprehensive overview. We also discuss the powerful role of SoundField and personal remote microphone systems in educational settings, underscoring their value for both children and adults facing listening challenges. Tune in for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of audiology and technological innovation.

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Discover the profound advancements in hearing technology as we sit down with Dr. Ted McRackan, a renowned neurotologist from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. McRackan brings a wealth of knowledge from his esteemed career, unraveling the intricacies of cochlear implants and their life-changing effects on patients. This episode promises an enlightening journey into the creation and impact of the Cochlear Implant Quality of Life (CIQL) scale, a tool that measures how these devices enrich lives beyond the auditory experience.

Our conversation with Dr. McRackan navigates the complexities of neurotology, shedding light on the nuanced process of hearing restoration. Delve into the CIQL item bank's comprehensive approach to evaluating self-reported functional abilities, covering communication, entertainment, and social interactions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of personalized care and setting realistic expectations, as outcomes vary widely among cochlear implant recipients. This dialogue offers insight into the evolution of patient counseling and the significance of shared decision-making in crafting individual care strategies.

Finally, we unveil an innovative app and web-based tool for clinicians and patients to monitor the progress of cochlear implant outcomes. This development marks a significant milestone, simplifying the tracking process and facilitating better post-operation expectations. Despite the acknowledgment of limitations for patients with specific cochlear conditions, the platform's inclusivity and the representation of various cochlear implant manufacturers underscore its potential broad application. We also celebrate the user-friendly nature of the accompanying manual and learning website, which serves as a beacon for both professionals and patients on this educational journey.

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In this episode of the Hearing Matters Podcast, we discuss how hearing influences a child's education and future prospects with Dr. Douglas Beck and pediatric audiology expert Dr. Jackie Rogers Scholl. 

This episode takes you on a journey through auditory processing and literacy, shedding light on the stark reality that many children face when undiagnosed auditory issues lead to struggles in learning and reading. We tackle how inadequate hearing, reading and listening screenings in schools fail to detect and treat hearing loss, listening disorders, auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, dyslexia and many other otherwise detectable and treatable problems, setting the stage for long-term academic challenges.

Dr. Scholl reveals the startling genetic and environmental contributors to hearing loss, as well as the impact of fluctuating hearing loss on speech and language development. We discuss groundbreaking research that links these auditory challenges to higher rates of incarceration, emphasizing the importance of stable auditory input for healthy brain development. 

The dialogue also addresses the outdated and sometimes non-existent current screening hearing protocols, which often do not detect fluctuating hearing loss, asymmetric hearing loss, extended high frequency hearing loss, poor word recognition scores, speech in noise problems, and other auditory  problems which can drastically affect a child's ability to process spoken language and succeed in the classroom.

As we look to the future of pediatric audiology, we express concerns over the potential impacts of budget cuts on the ability to effectively screen and support children with communicative disorders. We review early results from an upcoming study that promises to inform our understanding of hearing loss statistics, particularly regarding high-frequency loss in young children. 

Stay tuned for how to better manage and safeguard our children's hearing and, consequently, their educational and personal development, with insights from these leading experts in the field.

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When a patient suspects they have a hearing loss, they often enter the grieving process. But, what does this mean exactly? 

Do patients navigate through the grieving process and THEN purchase hearing aids? Do patients still grieve even after they're fit with hearing aids? 

You see, grief is not linear. This means that patients do not enter the denial stage, then anger stage, then bargaining stage, etc. In this episode, Blaise reviews the five stages of grief and connects Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Stages of Development to the hearing aid fitting and counseling process. The five stages of grief, thanks to the wonderful work of Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross include: 

1. Denial 
2. Anger 
3. Bargaining 
4. Depression 
5. Acceptance 

Why is the mind-brain connection so important when you're fitting patients with hearing aids? As humans, we don't necessarily respond well to change. When a patient suspects they present with hearing loss, enters the grieving process, and is then fit with hearing aids...well...this is a lot of change at once! As hearing care providers, we need to continue to place heavy emphasis on the hearing aid counseling process and understand what the mindset of the patient is. If you suspect that a patient needs additional assistance and you need to refer to a clinical psychologist or therapist, be sure to have that conversation with your patient.

If you are interested in listening to Dr. Andrew Huberman's podcast episode on grief, you can do so by clicking here. 

If you are a current or future hearing aid user, give yourself grace. If you need assistance finding a hearing healthcare provider in your area, please send us an email and we will connect with you a trusted hearing healthcare provider. 

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Embark on a profound exploration of the mind's auditory avenues with Dr. Douglas Beck and the distinguished Dr. Julia Sarant, as we unravel the intricate web connecting hearing health and cognitive vitality. Our conversation lifts the veil on how untreated hearing loss might fast-track cognitive decline, particularly in the older population, while considering the additional strains imposed by socioeconomic disparities and other health conditions.

As your guide through this critical discourse, we shine a light on the pivotal role of hearing care professionals and the revolutionary potential of hearing aids to possibly turn the tide against the risks of dementia. We wrap up with a powerful message that could redefine the future of cognitive care: the use of hearing aids might not just slow cognitive decline, but may actually halt it. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, filled with thought-provoking findings on how auditory assistance can have far-reaching implications beyond just improved hearing. Dr. Sarant's expertise helps us appreciate the sweeping enhancements to quality of life hearing aid technology can foster, painting a hopeful picture for the marriage of better hearing and better thinking. 

Join us for a journey that could change the way we perceive the interplay between our ears and our minds.

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Twitter: @hearing_mattas

Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a text

Discover the subtle distinctions between primary and secondary tinnitus with the help of Dr. James Henry, a leading audiologist and seasoned researcher who joins us to unravel the enigma of ringing ears. By dissecting the American Academy of Otolaryngology's guidelines, we shine a light on the rarity of secondary tinnitus and underscore the necessity of thorough evaluations for those experiencing this lesser-known type. As we navigate the often-misunderstood symptoms and implications of unilateral tinnitus, Dr. Henry also imparts wisdom from his latest book, providing a beacon of understanding for both patients and professionals striving to find relief in the cacophony of tinnitus.

Step into the world of cutting-edge therapies that promise to reshape your relationship with tinnitus. As we compare and contrast Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) and Progressive Tinnitus Management (PTM), you'll be introduced to the revolutionary neurophysiological model behind TRT and its quest for habituation. In parallel, we scrutinize PTM's multifaceted approach, blending cognitive-behavioral therapy with sound strategies, all while placing a spotlight on patient education. Grasp the transformative power of these treatments as they interweave sound therapy with psychological support to offer real relief.

Confront the reality of living with tinnitus head-on and join us as we discuss the vital importance of setting realistic expectations for treatment. While acknowledging the frustration that often accompanies this condition, Dr. Henry and Dr. Beck draw comparisons with other chronic health challenges to foster a sense of hope and perseverance. We share strategies and advice, including ear protection tips vital for anyone exposed to the risks of tinnitus, concluding with a heartening message—that with effective management, life can still be lived to its fullest, even with the whispers of tinnitus in the background.

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