Hearing Aids Are More Affordable, and Perhaps More Needed, Than Ever
Hearing Aids Are More Affordable, and Perhaps More Needed, Than Ever The New York Times
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Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids and Their Impact on Cognitive Decline
Over-the-counter devices have been available for a year now. New research suggests they may have unexpected benefits.
A year ago, the Food and Drug Administration announced new regulations allowing the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids and setting standards for their safety and effectiveness. This step was intended to make hearing aids more accessible and affordable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
However, the O.T.C. market remains confusing and chaotic for the older consumers it was meant to help.
Hearing loss has been identified as the greatest modifiable risk factor for dementia. Previous studies have shown a connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline.
The ACHIEVE study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that treating hearing loss with hearing aids reduced the rate of cognitive decline by 48 percent in older adults with lower income and higher risk factors for dementia.
While over-the-counter hearing aids offer a more affordable option, the market is still in its early stages and consumers may find it challenging to navigate.
Some experts argue that the emphasis on the connection between dementia and hearing loss may discourage people from seeking treatment for hearing loss due to the stigma associated with dementia.
However, consistent hearing-aid use has been shown to have positive effects on social interaction, cognition, and mental health.
The market for over-the-counter hearing aids is still evolving, with major manufacturers and retailers entering the space. The availability of self-fitting devices and partnerships with consumer companies are expected to drive innovation and lower prices.
Independent evaluations and rankings of both prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids are being conducted to guide buyers in making informed decisions.
The Introduction of Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
The Link Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline
The Benefits and Challenges of Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
The Future of Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
- Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.
The article discusses the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, highlighting the potential benefits of treating hearing loss in reducing the pace of cognitive decline. This aligns with SDG 3, which aims to promote good health and well-being for all individuals.
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SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
- Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities.
The article mentions that older adults with lower income and education levels, as well as higher rates of diabetes and hypertension, benefit the most from hearing aids in reducing cognitive decline. This highlights the importance of reducing inequalities in accessing healthcare services and technologies.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. | Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease. |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. | Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities. |
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Source: nytimes.com
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