There’s a very simple message for anybody struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study found that people were not as likely to develop health problems like depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls if they started using hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment. While these health problems aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been connected to their use. The study shows that seniors who use 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 anxiety and depression.
Refrain From Making Excuses
It’s worthwhile to keep in mind that when it comes to your health, these numbers might appear low but they’re still significant. Prior studies have revealed a correlation between hearing loss and other significant health issues, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, declining problem. It’s important to note that many individuals diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother getting hearing aids. Why not? For many, the lack of insurance coverage is an issue. Even among those with insurance, the cost may seem too high.
Some people actually go in and get fitted but when they get their hearing aid home, it seems like too much hassle to use them, so they don’t. Most individuals simply turn up the volume to solve the problem and don’t consider hearing loss as much of a problem.
Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the issue, however, and while hearing loss may seem to be an inescapable part of getting older, there is a lot more to it.
The Value of Healthy Hearing
Clearly, a principal aspect of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate properly, you may not understand questions posed by your doctors or family members. As a result, you may not be capable of conveying your concerns and symptoms.
There are also some less apparent issues associated with poor communication. When you struggle to hear and follow a conversation on the phone, you may lose touch with some of the people in your support system out of frustration or embarrassment. Not being able to hear might even lead to less brain stimulation, and we all recognize that exercising your mind can help fight against dementia.
Hearing Aid Benefits
Severe long-term concerns aren’t all that wearing hearing aids is about. Your long term wellbeing will definitely improve but hearing aids will instantly improve your quality of life. You will have a more gratifying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and take part in conversations. When you can communicate clearly with your doctor, you can accurately share the health issues you are experiencing and comprehend your doctor’s treatment plan to reduce your anxiety further.
Is it time to look into a hearing aid? The answer is yes if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Trouble hearing the person you are speaking to if there’s background noise
- Asking others to repeat what they said frequently
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social situations
- Turning the volume of the TV way up
These and potentially other symptoms might be an indication that it’s time to consider getting a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the correct option for you, especially if any of these symptoms sound familiar.