It is normal for people to disregard hearing loss as a typical part of getting older, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s a lot more prevalent. Research carried out by Duke-NUS Medical School revealed a substantial link between unaddressed hearing loss and a reduced lifespan among older individuals.
Elderly individuals 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 address hearing loss can potentially cut years off your life. The risks significantly escalate when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research data indicate that people who deal with dual sensory impairments, affecting both their hearing and vision, face significantly greater obstacles in performing day-to-day activities including personal care, meal planning, and medication management, resulting in significant losses of autonomy and total well-being.
Why hearing loss is connected to weak overall health
The connection between hearing loss and other medical problems isn’t just a coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to encounter:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased occurrence of smoking or unhealthy lifestyle behaviors
- Cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
This is because hearing is influenced by blood circulation to some extent. The proper functioning of the inner ear relies on having a sufficient supply of blood. If blood flow is reduced due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can adversely affect your hearing. In fact, some people experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular issues.
Hearing loss also strains the brain. When your ears are unable to clearly detect sounds, your brain needs to work harder to interpret speech. Using extra cognitive energy can hamper your brain’s ability to absorb and store knowledge, potentially accelerating mental decline.
The repercussion of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
In addition to the physical impacts, untreated hearing loss can impact your emotional health. People with hearing loss frequently begin to isolate themselves from social connections due to the increasing difficulties and annoyances of participating in discussions. This isolation often leads to:
- Isolation and decreased 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 mental and physical well-being.
Simple steps to improve hearing and overall health
The good news is that hearing impairment is treatable, and dealing with it early makes a huge difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule an appointment for a hearing examination– It is important to get evaluated even for slight symptoms as this can detect any problems early on.
- Think about Modern options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically advanced, and remarkably proficient at reducing distractions from surrounding sounds.
- Boost your nutrients. Key vitamins and minerals, like iron, B12, and folate play a critical role in maintaining healthy hearing. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or licensed dietitian.
- Address existing health conditions– Managing cardiovascular problems or anemia can also help maintain hearing.
Start managing your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss control your daily life or effect your overall longevity. Identifying and managing hearing loss early can result in successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively affecting your emotional health, cognitive function, and overall lifespan.
If you’ve begun to notice a decline in your ability to communicate, it’s essential to take action right away. Taking the time to get a hearing assessment can have a profound and long-lasting effect on your general health and quality of life.
Contact us now to schedule a hearing exam and get on the road to better health.