It is common for people to dismiss hearing loss as an ordinary aspect of aging, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. However, the latest studies suggest that its value is considerably underestimated. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a strong correlation between neglected hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Seniors with hearing or vision problems are already recognized to be at greater danger for depression, isolation, and cognitive decline. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss may actually shorten your lifespan. The risks considerably escalate when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research data indicate that individuals who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face substantially greater obstacles in performing daily activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in considerable losses of autonomy and total well-being.
Why hearing loss is connected to poor general health
There is a substantial connection between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
A study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing impairments are at a greater danger of:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Elevated danger of stroke
- Increased occurrence of smoking or hazardous lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation affects hearing. The inner ear relies on a strong supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are contracted by high blood pressure or smoking, for instance, your hearing may suffer. In fact, some people hear a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular problems.
Hearing loss also strains the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain has to work overtime to translate speech. Using additional mental energy can impede your brain’s ability to absorb and store knowledge, potentially speeding up mental decline.
The emotional and social cost of hearing loss
Apart from its physical implications, failing to address hearing loss can also have a pronounced impact on your mental health. People with hearing impairments frequently start to isolate themselves from social connections due to the increasing difficulties and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This isolation often leads to:
- Loneliness and decreased social activity
- Increased danger of depression and anxiety
- A deterioration in psychological and emotional health
These consequences can magnify over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both mental and physical health.
Strategy to improve your hearing and enhance your wellbeing
The good news is that hearing loss is treatable, and catching it early makes a big difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing assessment– Even if you have minor symptoms, a test can identify any issues before they worsen.
- Think about Contemporary options like hearing aid, they are compact, technologically advanced, and remarkably proficient at reducing distractions from surrounding sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Address underlying health conditions– Managing cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Start dealing with your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss dictate your daily life or effect your general longevity. Identifying and managing hearing loss promptly can result in successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional well-being, cognitive function, and overall lifespan.
If you’ve started to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. A hearing examination is a basic measure that could have a lasting impact on your health and well-being.
Reach out to us now to book an appointment for a hearing exam and begin your journey towards improved health.