Hearing loss is often disregarded as an ordinary part of getting older, like requiring bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. However, recent studies indicate that its importance is greatly underestimated. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a powerful association between neglected hearing loss and decreased mortality in older adults.
Seniors with hearing or vision problems are already known to be at greater danger for depression, isolation, and cognitive challenges. A shocking fact is that failing to address hearing loss can potentially cut years off your life. The risks substantially rise when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research findings indicate that people who deal with dual sensory impairments, affecting both their hearing and vision, face substantially greater obstacles in performing everyday activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in substantial losses of freedom and total well-being.
The connection between hearing loss and diminishing general wellness
There is a considerable connection between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to encounter:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or bad lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is probably due in part to how blood circulation affects hearing. The inner ear relies on a healthy supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are narrowed by high blood pressure or smoking, for example, your hearing might suffer. Indeed, some people may perceive a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, indicating potential issues with blood vessels.
In addition to impacting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are vague, your brain must exert more effort to translate and comprehend spoken language. This additional effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, increasing the risk of mental decline.
The repercussion of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Beyond the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional health. People with hearing impairments frequently start to isolate themselves from social connections as a result of the increasing difficulties and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This isolation often leads to:
- Isolation and diminished social interaction
- Greater susceptibility to disorders and emotional stress
- A decline in cognitive and emotional well-being
The effects can accumulate gradually, resulting in a decline in both mental and physical wellness.
Basic steps to improve hearing and overall health
Luckily, hearing loss can be managed with effective treatment options. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing assessment– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can pinpoint any problems before they get worse.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are unobtrusive, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Consult your doctor or a nutritionist for guidance.
- Managing underlying medical problems, including heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive effect on hearing.
Start dealing with your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or effect your overall longevity. Detecting and managing hearing loss early can lead to successful treatment, improving not only your ability to hear but also positively affecting your emotional well-being, mental function, and general lifespan.
If you’ve begun to observe a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. A hearing assessment is a basic measure that could have a lasting effect on your health and well-being.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing exam and get on the road to better health.