Hearing loss is often disregarded as a normal part of getting older, like requiring bifocals or noticing a few gray hairs. However, recent studies indicate that its importance is considerably undervalued. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a powerful association between untreated hearing loss and decreased mortality in older adults.
Seniors who have hearing or vision issues are already known to be at greater risk for depression, isolation, and cognitive decline. A startling fact is that failing to deal with hearing loss can potentially cut years off your life. The dangers substantially rise when hearing loss is paired with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
The study revealed that people with both hearing and vision loss are almost twice as likely to have difficulty with everyday activities like bathing, cooking, or managing medications, leading to serious declines in independence and quality of life.
The link between hearing loss and declining general wellness
The link between hearing loss and other medical problems isn’t just a coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to experience:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Increased danger of stroke
- Increased occurrence of smoking or hazardous lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, such as 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 a sufficient supply of blood. If blood flow is reduced due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can negatively impact your hearing. As a matter of fact, some people experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a symptom of vascular problems.
In addition to impacting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are vague, your brain needs to use more effort to translate and understand spoken language. Using extra cognitive energy can hamper your brain’s capacity to absorb and keep knowledge, potentially speeding up mental deterioration.
The emotional and social toll of hearing loss
Beyond its physical implications, failing to manage hearing loss can also have a pronounced impact on your mental health. Many individuals with hearing troubles start to disengage socially because it becomes more difficult and more frustrating to participate in conversations. This isolation often leads to:
- Loneliness and reduced social activity
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional stress
- A decline in mental and emotional wellness
These consequences can compound over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both mental and physical health.
Basic steps to improve hearing and total health
Luckily, hearing loss can be addressed with effective treatment options. Here’s what you can do:
- Make an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is essential to get evaluated even for minor symptoms as this can identify any issues early on.
- Think about Modern options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically sophisticated, and remarkably proficient at reducing distractions from surrounding sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Managing underlying medical issues, such as 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 general longevity. Detecting and managing hearing loss promptly can result in successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional health, mental function, and general lifespan.
If you’ve started to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s important to take action right away. Taking the time to undergo a hearing test can have a significant and long-lasting effect on your general health and quality of life.
Reach out to us now to schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation and begin your journey towards improved well-being.