Hearing loss is often disregarded as a normal part of aging, like requiring bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. But recent studies suggests it’s a lot more prevalent. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a strong association between untreated hearing loss and decreased mortality in older adults.
Elderly people experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to developing depression, feeling disconnected from others, and facing difficulties with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss may actually reduce your lifespan. The risks escalate significantly when hearing loss is combined with other sensory impairments, such as poor vision.
The research disclosed that individuals with both hearing and vision loss are almost twice as likely to struggle with daily tasks like bathing, cooking, or handling medications, resulting in major declines in self-reliance and quality of life.
Why hearing loss is connected to poor general health
There is a significant link between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that goes beyond coincidence.
A study carried out by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing impairments are at an increased danger of:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Higher instances of smoking or bad lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental performance, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some extent. The inner ear relies on a healthy supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are narrowed by high blood pressure or smoking, for example, your hearing may suffer. Indeed, certain individuals may hear a rushing or throbbing noise inside their ears, suggesting potential issues with blood vessels.
In addition to affecting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are unclear, your brain needs to exert more energy to decipher and comprehend spoken language. This additional effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, raising the danger of cognitive decline.
The emotional and social cost of hearing loss
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional wellness. Many individuals with hearing difficulties start to withdraw socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to participate in conversations. This solitude frequently results in:
- Loneliness and decreased social activity
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- A deterioration in mental and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, resulting in a decline in both mental and physical well-being.
Strategy to improve your hearing and boost your wellbeing
Luckily, hearing loss can be managed with successful treatment options. strategies for Action:
- Schedule a hearing assessment– Even if you have minor symptoms, a test can pinpoint any issues before they get worse.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are unobtrusive, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Address underlying health conditions– Treating cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
Hearing loss doesn’t have to control your life– or shorten it. When detected and managed early, hearing impairment can be managed effectively, strengthening not just your hearing but your emotional state, memory, and longevity.
If you’re noticing changes in your hearing or struggling to hear 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 book an appointment for a hearing evaluation and begin your journey towards improved health.