Even if you have an active, healthy lifestyle, you could develop hearing loss and specific cognitive concerns as you grow older. And a strong link between the two has been discovered by scientists which should never be ignored. So keep that hearing aid turned on.
Depression is two times as likely in individuals who have neglected hearing loss. In contrast to individuals who use a hearing aid, regular feelings of sadness were reported 27% more in people who have untreated hearing loss.
They were also 24% more likely to stop doing things they once loved and 39% more likely to feel like people are angry with them for no reason.
Let’s look at this interesting study and an even more troubling statistic you won’t want to hear but should know about. Don’t turn that hearing aid off!
This study turns our ideas about hearing loss upside down
For centuries, age-related hearing loss has been considered a “harmless” affliction. It was widely believed that compensation would come from all of the other senses. People would simply go on with their lives attempting to live safely, healthily, and happily. Beyond hearing impairment, it was thought that loss of hearing had no other adverse health effects.
Now we know better. This study demonstrates just one of the larger effects that hearing loss has on a person’s general health.
This important and well-structured study forces us to reconsider hearing loss as a society.
How the study was conducted
Over 2000 people 50 or older were surveyed in this study conducted by dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). The participants included a mix of hearing aid wearers and those with untreated hearing loss. Clinically relevant questions were asked to establish the levels of the following:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Isolation
- Paranoia
Over 2000 family members of the participants were also involved in this ground-breaking study. What they documented helped to give the participant’s comments validity. When we talk about hearing loss, this study, with the extra verification, becomes even more pertinent.
How health and quality of life are impacted by depression
Eating disorders such as severe obesity or significant weight loss are more likely in those who cope with depression, according to the American Psychological Association. They are more likely to suffer from insomnia and memory loss.
While driving, cooking, and other activities, their diminished reaction time can result in severe injury. Those who suffer with depression have even been found to heal more slowly, causing complications and lengthy hospital stays.
The risk of falls for older people is also increased when an individual suffers from depression.
As the hearing loss advances, depression gets worse. The person often becomes more and more isolated, lonely, and unable to care for him or herself.
Now, let’s look at a really sad statistic.
Hearing aid usage rates
Around 75% of individuals who should use hearing aids don’t wear them. That’s right. For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its adverse impacts are totally unnecessary and preventable, yet they are not taking steps to prevent it.
Why do so many individuals avoid using a hearing aid?
When asked why they don’t wear a hearing aid, many individuals say they do own one. They think it makes them look old so they simply neglect using it. It makes them embarrassed.
A hearing aid upgrade would be beneficial for these individuals. Modern hearing aids work better, and they are also more unobtrusive and let people sync with devices. This makes them seem more like an extension of your smart tech and less like a hearing aid.
A smaller but significant number of people say hearing aids are too expensive. States and insurance companies are now recognizing the connection between untreated hearing loss and general health. They are helping to make hearing aids more affordable and accessible. And unaddressed hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which the majority of people don’t take into account. They’re unaware of how hearing loss will affect their health and quality of life. In just a few years, your overall health cost can increase by as much as 40% because of untreated hearing loss.
How can hearing related depression symptoms be minimized?
Wear your hearing aid with pride. Show people how much better you can feel when you can hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help get rid of the stigma.
Maximize your hearing in every situation with your modern hearing aid by taking some time to master the advanced features. You’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid by simply cranking up the volume. Consult us so you can try out these upgraded hearing aids.
Consult us right away about the most effective way to utilize your hearing aid, particularly if you recognize that you’re not getting the most out of it and are tempted to put it in a drawer.
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References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss