Hearing loss is typically brushed off as a normal part of aging, like requiring bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s a lot more prevalent. A study from Duke-NUS Medical School found a powerful correlation between untreated hearing loss and reduced mortality in older adults.
Elderly people experiencing hearing or visual impairments are more susceptible to developing depression, feeling disconnected from others, and facing difficulties with mental processing and memory. A shocking fact is that failing to deal with hearing loss can potentially cut years off your lifespan. The dangers significantly escalate when hearing loss is paired with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
The study disclosed that individuals with both hearing and vision loss are nearly twice as likely to have difficulty with everyday tasks such as bathing, cooking, or managing medications, leading to serious declines in self-reliance and quality of life.
The connection between hearing loss and declining general health
The connection between hearing loss and other medical conditions isn’t just a coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to encounter:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Increased risk of stroke
- Higher rates of smoking or bad lifestyle behaviors
- Cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is impacted by blood circulation to some extent. The effective functioning of the inner ear relies on having an adequet supply of blood. If the flow of blood is restricted due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can negatively affect your hearing. As a matter of fact, some people experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular issues.
Hearing loss also taxes the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly hear sounds, your brain needs to work harder to translate speech. Using additional mental energy can impede your brain’s ability to absorb and store knowledge, potentially accelerating mental decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
Beyond the physical effects, untreated hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Many people with hearing problems begin to disengage socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to engage in conversations. This isolation often leads to:
- Solitude and decreased social activity
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- A decline in mental and emotional wellness
These repercussions can magnify over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both mental and physical health.
Strategy to enhance your hearing and enhance your wellbeing
Fortunately, hearing loss can be managed with successful treatment outcomes. Here’s what you can do:
- Make an appointment for a hearing assessment– It is essential to get evaluated even for slight symptoms as this can detect any issues early on.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are unobtrusive, Bluetooth-enabled, and very effective at filtering background noise.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients including iron, B12, and folate bolster hearing health. Speak with your doctor or a nutritionist for guidance.
- Deal with existing health conditions– Treating cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Take charge of your hearing health today
You don’t have to let hearing loss dictate your daily life or effect your overall longevity. When detected and regulated early, hearing loss can be managed effectively, improving not just your hearing but your mood, memory, and longevity.
If you’ve started to notice a decline in your discussions, it’s important 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.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing exam and get on the path to better health.
