It is normal for individuals to disregard hearing loss as a typical part of getting older, similar to requiring bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But recent research suggests it’s far more prevalent. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a strong association between untreated hearing loss and reduced life expectancy in older adults.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to suffering from depression, feeling disconnected from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss may actually shorten your lifespan. The risks increase substantially when hearing loss is combined with other sensory impairments, like poor vision.
Research findings indicate that individuals who deal with dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face significantly greater challenges in performing day-to-day activities including personal care, meal planning, and medication management, causing substantial losses of autonomy and general well-being.
Why hearing loss is connected to weak overall health
There is a considerable link between hearing loss and various other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins showed that seniors who suffer from hearing impairments are at a greater risk of:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Elevated danger of stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or bad lifestyle behaviors
- Mental decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some extent. The effective functioning of the inner ear relies on having a sufficient supply of blood. If blood flow is restricted as a result of conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely impact your hearing. As a matter of fact, some individuals hear a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular problems.
In addition to impacting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are unclear, your brain needs to use more energy to translate and understand spoken language. This additional effort may decrease your ability to process and retain information, increasing the risk of mental decline.
The emotional and social cost of hearing loss
Apart from its physical consequences, neglecting to address hearing loss can also have a pronounced impact on your mental well-being. Many individuals with hearing troubles start to disengage socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to participate in conversations. This isolation often leads to:
- Solitude and reduced social activity
- Greater susceptibility to disorders and emotional stress
- A deterioration in psychological 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 addressed with successful treatment options. Options for Action:
- Make an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is important to get evaluated even for slight symptoms as this can detect any issues early on.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are unobtrusive, Bluetooth-enabled, and very effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Consult your doctor or a nutritionist for assistance.
- Deal with underlying health conditions– Treating cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help maintain hearing.
Take control of your hearing health today
Hearing loss doesn’t have to take over your life– or shorten it. When detected and managed early, hearing impairment can be managed effectively, improving not just your hearing but your mood, memory, and longevity.
If you’ve begun to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s important to take action right away. A hearing examination is a simple step that could have a lasting effect on your health and well-being.
Reach out to us now to schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation and begin your journey towards improved well-being.