Hearing loss is typically disregarded as a normal part of aging, like requiring bifocals or noticing a few gray hairs. But recent research suggests it’s a lot more significant. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a powerful correlation between untreated hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual difficulties 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 might actually shorten your lifespan. The risks increase dramatically when hearing loss is combined with other sensory impairments, such as poor vision.
The research disclosed that people with both hearing and vision loss are nearly twice as likely to have difficulty with daily activities include bathing, cooking, or managing medications, resulting in serious declines in independence and quality of life.
Why hearing loss is linked to weak general health
There is a considerable connection between hearing loss and numerous other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to experience:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Elevated danger of stroke
- Increased prevalence of smoking or hazardous lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some extent. The proper functioning of the inner ear relies on having an adequet supply of blood. If the flow of blood is reduced due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can negatively impact your hearing. Indeed, certain people might perceive a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, suggesting potential issues with blood vessels.
In addition to impacting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are unclear, your brain needs to use more effort to decipher and comprehend spoken language. Using additional mental energy can impede your brain’s capacity to absorb and store knowledge, potentially accelerating mental deterioration.
The emotional and social toll of hearing loss
Beyond its physical implications, failing to manage hearing loss can also have a pronounced influence on your mental well-being. People with hearing impairments frequently start to isolate themselves from social interactions as a result of the increasing difficulties and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This solitude frequently results in:
- Loneliness and reduced social activity
- Increased danger of depression and anxiety
- A deterioration in psychological and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, resulting in a decline in both cognitive and physical wellness.
Basic steps to improve hearing and overall health
The good news is that hearing impairment is treatable, and catching it early makes a huge difference. strategies for Action:
- Schedule a hearing assessment– Even if you have minor 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. Get advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Regulating 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 general longevity. When identified and managed early, hearing loss can be managed effectively, improving not just your hearing but your mood, memory, and longevity.
If you’re noticing changes in your hearing or struggling to hear conversations, don’t wait. Taking the time to get a hearing assessment can have a profound and long-lasting impact on your total health and quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing exam and get on the road to better health.