It is normal for people to dismiss hearing loss as a typical aspect of aging, similar to requiring bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But recent research suggests it’s a lot more prevalent. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a powerful correlation between neglected hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Seniors who have hearing or vision problems are already recognized to be at greater risk for depression, isolation, and cognitive decline. A startling fact is that failing to address hearing loss can potentially cut years off your lifespan. The risks considerably escalate when hearing loss is paired with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research data indicate that individuals who deal with dual sensory impairments, affecting both their hearing and vision, face significantly greater challenges in performing daily activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in significant losses of autonomy and general well-being.
Why hearing loss is connected to weak overall health
The link between hearing loss and other medical conditions isn’t just a coincidence.
A study carried out by researchers at Johns Hopkins showed that seniors who suffer from hearing impairments are at a greater danger of:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased occurrence of smoking or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation impacts hearing. The proper functioning of the inner ear depends on having an adequet supply of blood. If blood flow is restricted due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely impact your hearing. Indeed, certain individuals might hear a rushing or throbbing noise inside their ears, indicating potential problems with blood vessels.
In addition to affecting your ears, hearing loss also puts stress on your brain. When sound signals are vague, your brain needs to use more energy to translate and understand spoken language. This added effort may reduce your ability to process and retain information, raising the risk of cognitive decline.
The repercussion of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Many individuals with hearing problems start to withdraw socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to participate in conversations. This isolation often leads to:
- Isolation and diminished social interaction
- Increased danger of depression and anxiety
- A decline in cognitive and emotional wellness
These repercussions can compound over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both cognitive and physical health.
Basic steps to improve hearing and total health
The good news is that hearing impairment is treatable, and dealing with it early makes a big difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Make an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is important to get evaluated even for slight symptoms as this can identify any issues early on.
- Think about Modern options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically advanced, and remarkably adept at reducing distractions from outside sounds.
- Increase your nutrients. Key vitamins and minerals, like iron, B12, and folate play a crucial role in preserving healthy hearing. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Regulating underlying medical issues, such as heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive effect on hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
Hearing loss doesn’t have to take over your life– or shorten it. Identifying and managing hearing loss early can result in successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively affecting your emotional health, cognitive function, and general lifespan.
If you’ve started to observe a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. Taking the time to undergo a hearing test can have a significant and long-lasting impact on your total health and quality of life.
Reach out to us now to book an appointment for a hearing exam and begin your journey towards improved health.
