It is normal for people to disregard hearing loss as an ordinary part of getting older, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But recent research suggests it’s far more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a powerful correlation between neglected hearing loss and decreased life expectancy in older adults.
Seniors with hearing or vision problems are already known to be at greater risk for depression, isolation, and cognitive decline. A shocking fact is that failing to deal with hearing loss can potentially cut years off your life. The dangers substantially escalate when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research findings indicate that people who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face significantly greater obstacles in performing day-to-day activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in substantial losses of autonomy and total well-being.
The link between hearing loss and declining general wellness
The link between hearing loss and other medical problems isn’t just a coincidence.
A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing impairments are at a greater risk of:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Higher instances of smoking or poor lifestyle habits
- Mental decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some degree. The inner ear depends on a strong supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are contracted by high blood pressure or smoking, for example, your hearing may suffer. Indeed, certain individuals may hear a rushing or throbbing noise inside their ears, suggesting potential problems with blood vessels.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears can’t clearly detect sounds, your brain needs to work overtime to interpret speech. Using added cognitive energy can hamper your brain’s capacity to absorb and store knowledge, potentially speeding up mental deterioration.
The emotional and social cost of hearing loss
Beyond the physical impacts, untreated hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Individuals with hearing impairments often start to separate themselves from social connections as a result of the increasing challenges and annoyances of participating in discussions. This solitude frequently results in:
- Solitude and reduced social activity
- Increased danger of depression and anxiety
- A decline in cognitive and emotional wellness
These repercussions can compound over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both mental and physical health.
Strategy to enhance your hearing and enhance your wellbeing
Luckily, hearing loss can be managed with successful treatment options. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is important to get evaluated even for minor symptoms as this can identify any issues early on.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Address underlying health conditions– Managing cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help maintain hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or effect your general longevity. Detecting and addressing hearing loss promptly can result in successful treatment, improving not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional well-being, mental function, and overall lifespan.
If you’ve started to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. A hearing examination is a simple step that could have a lasting effect on your health and well-being.
Reach out to us now to schedule an appointment for a hearing exam and begin your journey towards improved well-being.