It is common for individuals to disregard hearing loss as a typical aspect of getting older, similar to requiring bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But recent research suggests it’s far more significant. Research carried out by Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a substantial connection between unaddressed hearing impairments and a shorter lifespan among elderly individuals.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to suffering from depression, feeling isolated from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that untreated hearing loss might actually reduce your lifespan. The dangers dramatically escalate when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
The study disclosed that individuals with both hearing and vision loss are nearly twice as likely to have difficulty with daily activities such as bathing, cooking, or managing medications, resulting in serious declines in self-reliance and quality of life.
The link between hearing loss and diminishing general wellness
There is a substantial connection between hearing loss and various other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing issues are at an increased risk of:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Increased risk of stroke
- Higher instances of smoking or poor lifestyle habits
- Decrease in mental performance, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation affects hearing. The effective functioning of the inner ear depends on having an adequet supply of blood. If the flow of blood is reduced as a result of conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can negatively affect your hearing. As a matter of fact, some individuals experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a symptom of vascular problems.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain needs to work harder to interpret speech. Using added cognitive energy can impede your brain’s capacity to absorb and keep knowledge, potentially accelerating mental decline.
The repercussion of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Apart from its physical consequences, neglecting to manage hearing loss can also have a profound impact on your mental health. Individuals with hearing loss frequently start to separate themselves from social interactions due to the increasing difficulties and annoyances of participating in discussions. This seclusion often leads to:
- Seclusion and decreased social interaction
- Greater susceptibility to disorders and emotional stress
- A decline in mental and emotional wellness
The effects can build up gradually, leading to a decline in both cognitive and physical wellness.
Simple steps to improve hearing and total health
The good news is that hearing impairment is treatable, and dealing with it early makes a huge difference. Options for Action:
- Book an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is important to get tested even for minor symptoms as this can detect any problems early on.
- Consider hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and very effective at filtering background sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Consult your doctor or a nutritionist for assistance.
- Managing underlying medical problems, including heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive effect on hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
Hearing loss doesn’t have to control your life– or shorten it. Detecting and addressing hearing loss early can lead to successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional well-being, mental function, and general lifespan.
If you’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t wait. A hearing examination is a simple measure that could have a long lasting impact on your health and well-being.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing exam and get on the road to better health.