There’s a very basic message for anybody suffering from hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study revealed that individuals who obtained hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment were less likely to experience depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls than those who did not get hearing aids. While these health issues aren’t proven to be eliminated by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been linked to their use. Results from the study revealed that hearing aid users were 18% less likely to develop dementia, 11% less likely to develop depression or anxiety, and 13% less likely to have a serious fall.
Stop The Excuses
If these numbers seem low to you, it’s essential to remember that your health is at risk, and every little bit counts. Prior studies have revealed a correlation between hearing loss and other serious health issues, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining issue. But many people who have hearing impairment don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? For many, the absence of insurance coverage is a problem. Even among those with insurance, the expense could seem too high.
Some individuals actually go in and get fitted but when they get their hearing aid home, it seems like too much trouble to use them, so they don’t. Many individuals don’t view hearing impairment as a major issue because they can turn the volume of the TV up to solve the problem.
While it might seem as if hearing loss is unavoidable as you age, there’s more to it than that, and cranking up the volume is not the right answer.
Healthy Hearing is Vital
Hearing is obviously a huge element of communication. Without the ability to communicate precisely, you may not understand questions posed by your physicians or family members. As a result, you may not be capable of conveying your concerns and symptoms.
Other issues linked to a lack of reliable communication are less obvious. When you strain to hear and follow a conversation on the phone, you might lose touch with some of the people in your support system out of embarrassment and frustration. And obviously, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulation which happens when you can’t hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Buying a hearing aid isn’t all about severe, long-term concerns. Your long term wellbeing will certainly improve but hearing aids will instantly enhance your quality of life. You will have a more satisfying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. You will decrease your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health concerns with your doctor and comprehending his guidance for treatment.
Should I get hearing aids? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Constantly needing people to repeat themselves
- Difficulty hearing the person you are speaking to if there is background noise
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you avoid social situations
- Watching TV at extreme volume
These are only a few of the symptoms that might indicate you should consider a hearing aid. Come see us to determine if a hearing aid is the best choice for you, particularly if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.