There’s a very basic message for anyone suffering from hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study revealed that people were not as likely to develop health problems like anxiety, dementia, depression, and dangerous falls if they started wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss. While this doesn’t prove hearing aids prevent these health problems, their use is connected with fewer health issues. The study reveals that seniors who wore hearing aids had a 13% less likely chance of having a serious fall. They also had an 18% less likely chance of developing dementia and an 11% less likelihood of developing depression and anxiety.
Stop The Excuses
If these figures seem low to you, it’s significant to recall that your health is at stake, and every little bit counts. Prior studies have shown a correlation between hearing loss and other serious health issues, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining problem. But many individuals who have hearing impairment don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? For many, the lack of insurance coverage is an issue. Even among people who have insurance, the cost might seem too high.
Some people actually go in and get fitted but when they bring their hearing aid home, it seems like too much trouble to use them, so they don’t. Most individuals just turn up the volume to solve the problem and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
Higher volume on the TV won’t solve the problem, though, and while hearing loss might seem to be an inescapable part of getting older, there is a lot more to it.
The Value of Healthy Hearing
Obviously, a major element of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate properly, you may not comprehend questions posed by your physicians or family members. Consequently, communicating your concerns and symptoms will be a challenge.
Other problems linked to a lack of effective communication are less apparent. If trying to have phone conversations leaves you feeling frustrated and embarrassed, you may begin to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And obviously, your chance of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulus which occurs when you are unable to hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Extreme long-term challenges are not all that getting hearing aids is about. Your long term outlook will certainly improve but hearing aids will immediately enhance your quality of life. You will have a more fulfilling social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. When you can communicate clearly with your doctor, you can accurately share the health concerns you are experiencing and comprehend your doctor’s treatment plan to reduce your anxiety even more.
Is it time to consider a hearing aid? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Background noise makes it difficult to hear when someone is speaking to you
- Asking others to repeat what they said constantly
- Avoiding social situations because you’re afraid you can’t follow conversations
- Watching TV at extreme volume
These and potentially other symptoms might be an indication that it’s time to think about getting a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to find out if a hearing aid is the right choice for you, particularly if any of these symptoms sound familiar.