It is common for individuals to dismiss hearing loss as a typical aspect of getting older, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s far more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a strong correlation between neglected hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Seniors who have hearing or vision issues are already recognized to be at greater risk for depression, isolation, and cognitive challenges. What’s surprising is that untreated hearing loss may actually shorten your lifespan. The risks escalate dramatically when hearing loss is combined with other sensory impairments, like poor vision.
Research findings indicate that individuals who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face significantly greater challenges in performing daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, resulting in considerable losses of freedom and total well-being.
Why hearing loss is linked to poor 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 revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing issues are at an increased risk of:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Increased danger of stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or bad lifestyle behaviors
- Cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is probably due in part to how blood circulation affects hearing. 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 perceive a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, suggesting potential problems 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 effort to translate and comprehend spoken language. Using extra mental energy can hamper your brain’s capacity to absorb and store knowledge, potentially accelerating mental deterioration.
The emotional and social cost of hearing loss
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional wellness. Many individuals with hearing troubles begin to withdraw socially because it becomes more difficult and more frustrating to engage in conversations. This isolation often leads to:
- Isolation and diminished social interaction
- 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 enhance your hearing and enhance your wellbeing
The good news is that hearing impairment is treatable, and dealing with it early makes a big difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing evaluation– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can identify any problems before they worsen.
- Think about Contemporary options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically advanced, and incredibly proficient at reducing distractions from outside sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Deal with underlying health conditions– Managing cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help maintain hearing.
Take control of your hearing health today
Hearing loss doesn’t have to control your life– or shorten it. When identified and regulated early, hearing impairment can be treated effectively, improving not just your hearing but your emotional state, memory, and longevity.
If you’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t put off. Taking the time to get a hearing assessment can have a significant and long-lasting effect on your overall health and quality of life.
Reach out to us now to book an appointment for a hearing exam and start your journey towards improved health.