It is normal for people to dismiss hearing loss as a typical part of aging, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But recent research suggests it’s a lot more prevalent. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a strong correlation between neglected hearing loss and decreased mortality in older adults.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to developing depression, feeling isolated from others, and facing difficulties with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss might actually reduce your lifespan. The risks escalate considerably when hearing loss is coupled with other sensory impairments, like poor vision.
Research data indicate that people who deal with dual sensory impairments, affecting both their hearing and vision, face substantially greater obstacles in performing everyday activities such as personal care, meal planning, and medication management, causing significant losses of autonomy and total well-being.
The link between hearing loss and diminishing general health
There is a considerable link between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing issues are at a greater risk of:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or poor lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation affects hearing. The proper functioning of the inner ear depends on having an adequet supply of blood. If blood flow is restricted due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely impact your hearing. Indeed, some individuals might perceive a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, indicating potential issues with blood vessels.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain has to work overtime to interpret speech. Using extra cognitive energy can hamper your brain’s capacity to absorb and store knowledge, potentially speeding up mental decline.
The emotional and social toll of hearing loss
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional wellness. People with hearing impairments often begin 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 stress
- A deterioration in mental and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, leading to a decline in both cognitive and physical wellness.
Strategy to improve your hearing and enhance your wellbeing
Fortunately, hearing loss can be managed with effective treatment options. Here’s what you can do:
- Make an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is essential to get evaluated even for slight symptoms as this can identify any issues early on.
- Think about Modern options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically sophisticated, and remarkably proficient at reducing distractions from surrounding sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Deal with underlying health conditions– Managing cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help maintain hearing.
Take control of your hearing health today
You don’t have to let hearing loss dictate your daily life or impact your overall longevity. When identified and regulated early, hearing loss can be treated effectively, strengthening not just your hearing but your mood, memory, and longevity.
If you’re noticing changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t put off. Taking the time to get a hearing assessment can have a significant and long-lasting effect on your overall health and quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing exam and get on the road to better health.