Hearing loss is typically disregarded as a normal part of getting older, like requiring bifocals or noticing a few gray hairs. But new studies suggests it’s a lot more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a strong association between untreated hearing loss and reduced life expectancy in older adults.
Seniors with hearing or vision issues are already recognized to be at greater risk for depression, isolation, and cognitive decline. What’s surprising is that untreated hearing loss might actually reduce your lifespan. The dangers dramatically rise when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research findings indicate that individuals who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face considerably greater challenges in performing daily activities including personal care, meal planning, and medication management, causing considerable losses of autonomy and general well-being.
The connection between hearing loss and diminishing general wellness
The link between hearing loss and other medical problems isn’t just a coincidence.
A study carried out by researchers at Johns Hopkins showed 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
- Decrease in mental performance, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is because hearing is impacted by blood circulation to some degree. The effective functioning of the inner ear relies on having an adequet supply of blood. If blood flow is reduced due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely impact your hearing. In fact, some people experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular issues.
Hearing loss also strains the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain needs to work overtime to interpret speech. Using extra mental energy can hamper your brain’s capacity to absorb and keep knowledge, potentially speeding up mental deterioration.
The repercussion of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Beyond its physical consequences, neglecting to address hearing loss can also have a profound impact on your mental health. People with hearing loss frequently start to separate themselves from social connections as a result of the increasing difficulties and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This isolation often leads to:
- Solitude and reduced social activity
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- A deterioration in mental and emotional health
These repercussions can magnify over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both mental and physical health.
Simple steps to improve hearing and overall health
Luckily, hearing loss can be addressed with effective treatment options. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing assessment– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can pinpoint any problems before they worsen.
- Think about Modern options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically sophisticated, and remarkably adept at minimizing distractions from surrounding sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Speak with your doctor or a nutritionist for assistance.
- Regulating underlying medical problems, including heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive impact on hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss dictate your daily life or impact your overall 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’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t put off. Taking the time to undergo a hearing test can have a significant and long-lasting impact on your overall health and quality of life.
Reach out to us now to schedule an appointment for a hearing exam and start your journey towards improved health.