Hearing loss is often disregarded as a normal part of getting older, like requiring bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. But new studies 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 disconnected from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that untreated hearing loss may actually reduce your lifespan. The risks increase significantly when hearing loss is combined with other sensory impairments, such as poor vision.
The study disclosed that people with both hearing and vision loss are almost two times as likely to have difficulty with everyday activities include bathing, cooking, or handling medications, leading to major declines in independence and quality of life.
Why hearing loss is connected to weak overall health
The connection between hearing loss and other medical problems isn’t just a coincidence.
A study carried out by researchers at Johns Hopkins revealed that seniors who suffer from hearing issues are at a greater risk of:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Elevated risk of stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or bad lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental performance, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is probably due in part to how blood circulation impacts hearing. The inner ear depends on a strong supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are narrowed by high blood pressure or smoking, for example, your hearing may suffer. Indeed, some people might perceive a rushing or throbbing noise within their ears, suggesting potential problems with blood vessels.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain has to work overtime to interpret speech. This extra effort may reduce your ability to process and retain information, increasing the risk of mental decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Apart from its physical implications, neglecting to address hearing loss can also have a profound influence on your mental health. Individuals with hearing loss often start to isolate themselves from social interactions due to the increasing challenges and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This seclusion often leads to:
- Seclusion and diminished social interaction
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional distress
- A deterioration in psychological and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, leading to a decline in both cognitive and physical wellness.
Strategy to improve your hearing and boost your wellbeing
Luckily, hearing loss can be addressed with effective treatment options. strategies for Action:
- Schedule a hearing evaluation– Even if you have minor symptoms, a test can pinpoint any problems before they worsen.
- Consider hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Speak with your doctor or a nutritionist for assistance.
- Deal with existing health conditions– Treating cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
Hearing loss doesn’t have to control your life– or shorten it. Detecting and managing hearing loss early can result in successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional health, mental function, and overall lifespan.
If you’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to keep up with conversations, don’t wait. Taking the time to get a hearing test can have a significant and long-lasting impact on your total health and quality of life.
Contact us now to schedule a hearing exam and get on the path to better health.