Hearing loss is typically disregarded as a normal part of getting older, like needing bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. However, recent studies indicate that its importance is greatly undervalued. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a powerful correlation between untreated hearing loss and reduced life expectancy 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 substantially escalate when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research findings indicate that individuals who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face considerably greater challenges in performing everyday activities including personal care, meal planning, and medication management, resulting in considerable losses of freedom and general well-being.
Why hearing loss is linked to poor general health
There is a significant link between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to experience:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Increased risk of stroke
- Increased prevalence of smoking or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental performance, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is because hearing is impacted by blood circulation to some extent. The inner ear depends on a healthy supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are contracted by high blood pressure or smoking, for example, your hearing may suffer. Indeed, certain people might hear a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, suggesting potential issues with blood vessels.
In addition to impacting your ears, hearing loss also puts stress on your brain. When sound signals are vague, your brain must exert more energy to decipher and understand spoken language. This extra effort may decrease your ability to process and retain information, increasing the danger of mental decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Beyond its physical implications, failing to address hearing loss can also have a pronounced influence on your mental well-being. Individuals with hearing loss often start to separate themselves from social connections as a result of the increasing challenges and annoyances of participating in discussions. This seclusion often leads to:
- Solitude and decreased social activity
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- A decline in cognitive and emotional wellness
The effects can accumulate gradually, leading to a decline in both mental and physical well-being.
Strategy to enhance your hearing and enhance your wellbeing
Fortunately, hearing loss can be addressed with effective treatment outcomes. Here’s what you can do:
- Book an appointment for a hearing examination– It is important to get evaluated even for minor symptoms as this can detect any problems early on.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and very effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Address existing health conditions– Managing cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help maintain hearing.
Start dealing with your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or effect your general longevity. When identified and managed early, hearing impairment can be managed effectively, strengthening not just your hearing but your mood, memory, and longevity.
If you’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t wait. A hearing examination is a basic step that could have a lasting impact on your health and well-being.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing exam and get on the road to better health.