Hebrew SeniorLife created the word ReAge to reflect the breadth and depth of services we offer: providing world-class health care; building innovative senior communities; funding groundbreaking research; and teaching future generations of geriatricians.

ReAge, a combination of “redefine” and “aging,” means to question everything about the aging process. Through ReAging, we are challenging conventions in order to create and implement new standard-of-care approaches that will positively impact the lives of older adults.

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hearing loss

Hearing Loss and Depression

Research Says Hearing Loss Linked to Depression

Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA's picture
By Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA
May 30, 2013
Hearing Loss and Depression

Many studies indicate that people with untreated hearing loss may be at an increased risk of depression. Further, when these people use hearing aids, they experience significant improvements in quality of life and a decrease in depressive symptoms. A study published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics examined the effects of hearing aids on cognitive function and depressive signs in people 65 and older. Researchers found that after three months of using a hearing aid, all patients showed significant improvement in their psychosocial and cognitive conditions.

March comes in like a lion, and goes out like a… ram?

Nuances of Hearing Loss

Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA's picture
By Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA
March 25, 2013
hearing loss

Okay, we KNOW it should be lamb, but very often, a person with hearing impairment may hear a similar word, but one that very much changes the meaning of the phrase. In the above example, familiarity with the phrase would help. But, what about this exchange?

“Hey, nice watch. What kind is it?”

“Oh, it’s 12:30.”

Heart Health and Hearing Loss

The Whisper of Sweet Nothings….Can you hear them?

Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA's picture
By Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA
February 13, 2013
heart health and hearing

Here it is: February. A short month in terms of days, but a long month for many, as it is usually cold and falls between the excitement of the holidays and the anticipation of spring.

February also claims Valentine’s Day and American Heart Health Month. Speaking of hearts, did you know that there is a link between heart health and hearing health? The inner ear is extremely sensitive to blood flow. Studies have shown that a healthy cardiovascular system—a person’s heart, arteries, and veins, has a positive effect on hearing. Conversely, inadequate blood flow and trauma to the blood vessels of the inner ear can contribute to hearing loss.

Don’t Let Hearing Problems Weigh You Down in 2013

New Year, New Ears

Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA's picture
By Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA
January 15, 2013
senior hearing

We all make resolutions when the New Year rolls around. And usually, our resolutions are chosen to improve ourselves in some way. Do we want to eat better? Lose weight? Exercise more? Find ways to lessen stress?

If you, or any of your loved ones, have been struggling with hearing problems, perhaps 2013 is the time to resolve to hear BETTER!

Healthy Hearing for the Happiest of Holidays

Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA's picture
By Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA
December 6, 2012
healthy hearing

Holidays bring to mind thoughts of family, friends, fun, food…and maybe, in the face of hearing loss, some stress knowing it will be hard to keep up with the conversations. Maybe, when Cousin Bob tells his latest joke, you laugh at the punch line. NOT because you heard it, but because everyone else is laughing. Maybe, when the group is reminiscing at the kitchen table, you sneak off into the other room where it’s quiet, and you don’t have to participate.

What’s so Scary about Hearing Loss?

Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA's picture
By Leesa Burke, MA, FAAA
October 18, 2012
elderly man with doctor

What is so scary about hearing loss? Everyone gets a little hearing problem as they age, right? Well….yes. Most people do acquire age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, as they get older. Untreated hearing loss, however, can be a scary thing! Its onset is usually slow and gets worse gradually, making it easy to ignore until much damage is already done.

Research out of Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, presents us with evidence of some frightening correlations between hearing loss and its subsequent effect on cognitive brain function.

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