Hearing loss is typically disregarded as an ordinary part of getting older, like needing bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s a lot more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a powerful correlation between untreated hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Elderly people experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to developing depression, feeling disconnected from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. A startling fact is that failing to deal with hearing loss can potentially cut years off your life. The dangers dramatically rise when hearing loss is paired with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research data indicate that people who deal with dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face considerably greater obstacles in performing day-to-day activities such as personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in substantial losses of freedom and total well-being.
The link between hearing loss and declining general wellness
There is a substantial link between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
A study carried out by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing issues are at a greater risk of:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased occurrence of smoking or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors
- Cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is impacted by blood circulation to some degree. The inner ear depends on a healthy supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are contracted by high blood pressure or smoking, for instance, your hearing may suffer. Indeed, some individuals may hear a rushing or throbbing noise inside their ears, suggesting potential issues with blood vessels.
In addition to impacting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are unclear, your brain must use more effort to decipher and understand spoken language. This extra effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, raising the danger of cognitive decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Individuals with hearing loss frequently start to isolate themselves from social interactions as a result of the increasing challenges and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This solitude frequently results in:
- Loneliness and reduced social activity
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional distress
- A decline in mental and emotional wellness
The effects can accumulate gradually, resulting in a decline in both mental and physical well-being.
Strategy to improve your hearing and boost your wellbeing
Fortunately, hearing loss can be managed with effective treatment outcomes. Here’s what you can do:
- Book an appointment for a hearing examination– It is essential to get tested even for minor symptoms as this can identify any problems early on.
- Consider 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. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Deal with existing health conditions– Managing cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Take charge of your hearing health today
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or effect your overall longevity. Detecting and managing hearing loss promptly can lead to successful treatment, improving not only your ability to hear but also positively affecting your emotional health, cognitive function, and overall lifespan.
If you’ve started to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. A hearing assessment is a simple step that could have a lasting effect on your health and well-being.
Reach out to us now to book an appointment for a hearing evaluation and start your journey towards improved well-being.