It is common for people to dismiss hearing loss as a typical part of getting older, similar to requiring bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s a lot more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a powerful association between untreated hearing loss and decreased mortality in older adults.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual impairments are more susceptible to suffering from 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 escalate substantially when hearing loss is combined with other sensory impairments, like poor vision.
Research data indicate that people who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face considerably greater challenges in performing day-to-day activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in considerable losses of autonomy and overall well-being.
The link between hearing loss and diminishing general wellness
The connection between hearing loss and other medical problems isn’t just a coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to encounter:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased prevalence of smoking or hazardous lifestyle behaviors
- Mental decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some extent. The inner ear relies 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, some people may hear a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, indicating potential issues with blood vessels.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears can’t clearly hear sounds, your brain needs to work overtime to translate speech. This additional effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, raising the risk of mental decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
In addition to the physical effects, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Many individuals with hearing problems begin to withdraw socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to participate in conversations. This solitude frequently results in:
- Loneliness and reduced social activity
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional stress
- A decline in mental and emotional well-being
These repercussions can compound over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both cognitive and physical health.
Simple steps to improve hearing and overall health
Luckily, hearing loss can be managed with effective treatment outcomes. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing assessment– Even if you have minor symptoms, a test can identify any problems before they worsen.
- Consider hearing aids– Today’s devices are unobtrusive, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Deal with underlying health conditions– Treating cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
Hearing loss doesn’t have to take over your life– or shorten it. When detected and managed early, hearing impairment can be treated effectively, improving not just your hearing but your emotional state, memory, and longevity.
If you’ve begun to notice a decline in your discussions, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. Taking the time to get a hearing test can have a significant and long-lasting impact 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.