Hearing loss is typically brushed off as a normal part of getting older, like requiring bifocals or noticing a few gray hairs. However, recent studies indicate that its importance is considerably undervalued. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a powerful correlation between neglected hearing loss and reduced life expectancy in older adults.
Elderly people experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to developing depression, feeling disconnected from others, and facing difficulties with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss might actually shorten your lifespan. The risks increase dramatically when hearing loss is coupled with other sensory impairments, such as poor vision.
Research data indicate that individuals who deal with dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face considerably greater obstacles in performing daily activities such as personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, causing considerable losses of autonomy and overall well-being.
The connection between hearing loss and declining general health
There is a substantial connection between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to experience:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased prevalence of smoking or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental performance, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation impacts 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 might suffer. As a matter of fact, some individuals experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a symptom of vascular issues.
Hearing loss also strains the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain has to work overtime to translate speech. This extra effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, raising the risk of cognitive decline.
The emotional and social toll of hearing loss
Apart from its physical implications, neglecting to address hearing loss can also have a pronounced influence on your mental well-being. Many individuals with hearing difficulties start to disengage socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to engage in conversations. This solitude frequently results in:
- Seclusion and diminished social interaction
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional stress
- A decline in cognitive and emotional well-being
These consequences can magnify over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both cognitive and physical health.
Strategy to enhance your hearing and boost your wellbeing
The good news is that hearing loss is treatable, and catching it early makes a huge difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing evaluation– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can identify any issues before they worsen.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and very effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Consult your doctor or a nutritionist for guidance.
- Managing underlying medical issues, such as heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive impact on hearing.
Take control of your hearing health today
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or impact your overall longevity. Detecting and addressing hearing loss early can lead to successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional well-being, mental function, and general lifespan.
If you’ve started to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. Taking the time to get a hearing test can have a profound and long-lasting impact on your overall health and quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing test and get on the road to better health.