The actress reflects on her health anxieties and the impact of hearing loss amid rising concerns about dementia in an ageing population.
Stephanie Beacham, the 78-year-old actress known for her roles in “Strictly Come Dancing” and the American series “Dynasty,” has expressed her deep concern about the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease, stemming from her ongoing battle with hearing loss.
In a recent interview with the Sunday Times Magazine, Beacham revealed the anxiety she faces regarding her health, drawing parallels to her father’s struggle with the condition. “He was also robbed of his sight and hearing: I couldn’t even hold his hand and say: ‘Daddy, it’s Stephy,’ because he was so scared,” she reflected, highlighting the emotional impact of witnessing her father’s decline. She noted, “This is the man who taught me to ride a bike. And I couldn’t bloody help him.”
Beacham’s fear is rooted in her own partial deafness, which she believes may increase her susceptibility to Alzheimer’s. “Being blind or deaf leaves you isolated; that’s when the disease can strike,” she stated. She also took the opportunity to voice her opinions on the societal discourse regarding aging, critiquing the focus on assisted dying while advocating for improved assistance for living. “We are an ageing population; we need more research and funding for Alzheimer’s. And hospice care,” she emphasised.
The conversation surrounding hearing loss and its potential link to dementia is gaining traction within the medical community. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, individuals who develop hearing problems in midlife—between the ages of 40 and 65—may face an elevated risk of developing dementia. Hearing loss may also manifest as an early symptom of dementia, though it is important to note that having hearing problems does not definitively mean one will develop the disease.
Beyond hearing loss, the NHS identifies several other risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s, including advanced age, family history, head injuries, cardiovascular health, and social isolation. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol also contribute to the risk.
Experts suggest that proactive measures, such as regular hearing tests, could play a role in mitigating these risks. The Alzheimer’s Society advocates that individuals concerned about their hearing should seek assistance from audiologists. Research indicates that individuals who utilise hearing aids to manage their hearing loss are less likely to experience dementia-related memory and thinking issues.
As Beacham’s concerns resonate with many, her narrative underlines the intersection of health challenges faced by the aging population and the pressing necessity for further research and resources dedicated to Alzheimer’s care and support.
Source: Noah Wire Services
