Hearing aids slow cognitive decline in people at high risk

> Hearing aids reduced the rate of cognitive decline in older adults at high risk of dementia by almost 50% over a three-year period.

Seems rather unsurprising, given what we already know of the brain. Though I guess specific studies like this is more actionable.

Good thing hearing aids have become more affordable lately, from over-the-counter models to DIY style using cheap microcontrollers for developing countries.

Which to me shouldn't be that surprising given that we know neurons seek to connect with other neurons based on activation patterns, and that the brain stays plastic into old age.

I've seen similar with movement. Once they break a hip or something which severely reduces their physical activity level, cognitive abilities usually go downhill fast. Part of that is probably cardio-related, but I've long thought it was related to lack of stimulus.

Just doing the dishes or feeling the wind creates a ton of sensations, and may trigger memories, that sitting in a chair watching daytime TV just won't.

What about people who are completely deaf since birth?