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. However, recent studies indicate that its importance is greatly underestimated. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a strong correlation between untreated hearing loss and decreased life expectancy in older adults.
Seniors with hearing or vision problems are already recognized to be at greater risk for depression, isolation, and cognitive challenges. What’s surprising is that untreated hearing loss may actually shorten your lifespan. The risks significantly rise when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research findings indicate that people who deal with dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face substantially greater challenges in performing daily activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, causing substantial losses of autonomy and general well-being.
Why hearing loss is linked to weak general health
There is a significant connection between hearing loss and various other health conditions that goes beyond coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to experience:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or poor lifestyle habits
- Mental decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation impacts hearing. The effective functioning of the inner ear depends on having a sufficient supply of blood. If the flow of blood is reduced due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely affect your hearing. As a matter of fact, some individuals hear a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a symptom of vascular issues.
Hearing loss also strains the brain. When your ears can’t clearly hear sounds, your brain needs to work overtime to interpret speech. This added effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, increasing the danger of cognitive decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional wellness. Individuals with hearing impairments often begin to isolate themselves from social connections due to the increasing difficulties and annoyances of participating in discussions. This solitude frequently results in:
- Solitude and reduced social activity
- Increased danger of depression and anxiety
- A deterioration in mental and emotional health
These repercussions can compound over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both mental and physical health.
Basic steps to improve hearing and overall health
Luckily, hearing loss can be managed with effective treatment options. Options for Action:
- Schedule a hearing evaluation– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can pinpoint any issues before they worsen.
- Think about Modern options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically advanced, and remarkably adept at minimizing distractions from outside sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Managing underlying medical problems, including heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive effect on hearing.
Start dealing with your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or impact your overall longevity. Identifying and managing hearing loss promptly can lead to successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional well-being, cognitive function, and general lifespan.
If you’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t put off. A hearing evaluation is a simple step that could have a long lasting impact on your health and well-being.
Reach out to us now to schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation and start your journey towards improved well-being.