It is common for individuals to disregard hearing loss as an ordinary aspect of aging, similar to requiring bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s a lot more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a powerful association between neglected hearing loss and reduced life expectancy in older adults.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more vulnerable to developing depression, feeling isolated from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. A shocking fact is that failing to deal with hearing loss can potentially cut years off your life. The risks dramatically rise when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
The study revealed that people with both hearing and vision loss are almost two times as likely to have difficulty with everyday activities such as bathing, cooking, or handling medications, leading to major declines in self-reliance and quality of life.
The connection between hearing loss and declining general health
There is a significant connection between hearing loss and various other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to experience:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or bad lifestyle habits
- Decrease in mental functioning, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is probably due in part to how blood circulation impacts hearing. The effective functioning of the inner ear relies on having an adequet supply of blood. If the flow of blood is reduced as a result of conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely impact your hearing. As a matter of fact, some people hear a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a symptom of vascular issues.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears can’t clearly hear sounds, your brain needs to work overtime to interpret speech. Using additional mental energy can impede your brain’s ability to absorb and keep knowledge, potentially accelerating mental deterioration.
The emotional and social cost of hearing loss
In addition to the physical effects, untreated hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Many individuals with hearing troubles start to disengage socially because it becomes more difficult and more frustrating to engage in conversations. This solitude frequently results in:
- Isolation and diminished social interaction
- Increased danger of depression and anxiety
- A deterioration in psychological and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, leading to a decline in both mental and physical well-being.
Strategy to enhance your hearing and boost your wellbeing
Luckily, hearing loss can be addressed with effective treatment options. Options for Action:
- Schedule an appointment for a hearing examination– It is essential to get evaluated even for minor symptoms as this can detect any problems early on.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are unobtrusive, Bluetooth-enabled, and very effective at filtering background noise.
- Increase your nutrients. Key vitamins and minerals, like iron, B12, and folate play a crucial role in preserving healthy hearing. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Regulating underlying medical issues, including heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive impact on hearing.
Take charge of your hearing health today
Hearing loss doesn’t have to take over your life– or shorten it. Identifying and managing hearing loss promptly can result in successful treatment, improving not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional well-being, cognitive function, and overall lifespan.
If you’ve begun to observe a decline in your discussions, it’s essential to take action right away. Taking the time to undergo a hearing assessment can have a significant and long-lasting impact on your overall health and quality of life.
Reach out to us now to book an appointment for a hearing exam and begin your journey towards improved health.