It is common for people to disregard hearing loss as a typical aspect of aging, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. However, the latest studies indicate that its importance is greatly undervalued. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a strong association between untreated hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual impairments are more susceptible to suffering from depression, feeling isolated from others, and facing difficulties with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that untreated hearing loss may actually shorten your lifespan. The risks significantly rise when hearing loss is paired with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
The research revealed that people with both hearing and vision loss are nearly two times as likely to struggle with daily tasks like bathing, cooking, or managing medications, leading to serious declines in independence and quality of life.
Why hearing loss is connected to poor general health
There is a considerable connection between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to experience:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Increased risk of stroke
- Higher instances of smoking or poor lifestyle habits
- Mental decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some degree. 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. As a matter of fact, some individuals experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular problems.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain needs to work overtime to interpret speech. This added effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, increasing the risk of mental decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Beyond its physical implications, neglecting to manage hearing loss can also have a profound impact on your mental well-being. People with hearing loss often start to separate themselves from social interactions as a result of the increasing challenges and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This solitude frequently results in:
- Isolation and decreased social interaction
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional stress
- A deterioration in mental and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, resulting in a decline in both mental and physical wellness.
Simple steps to improve hearing and total health
The good news is that hearing loss is treatable, and catching it early makes a big difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Make an appointment for a hearing examination– It is important to get tested even for slight symptoms as this can identify any problems early on.
- Consider hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Address existing health conditions– Managing cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss dictate your daily life or impact your overall longevity. When identified and managed early, hearing loss 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 hear conversations, don’t put off. A hearing evaluation is a basic measure that could have a lasting impact on your health and well-being.
Reach out to us now to schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation and start your journey towards improved well-being.