As we age, we all recognize that hearing loss and particular mental health challenges can get worse despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And scientists have recognized a strong connection between the two that shouldn’t be overlooked and it will help if you don’t turn that hearing aid off.
People with untreated hearing loss are two times as likely to cope with depression. Nearly 27% more people with neglected hearing loss reported “often feeling sad” compared to those who used a hearing aid.
They were also 24% more likely to stop doing things they used to love 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 be aware of. Keep that hearing aid turned on!
Our beliefs about hearing loss will be completely changed by this study
For centuries, age-related hearing loss has been regarded as 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. Apart from hearing impairment, it was thought that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.
Now we know better. One of the impacts hearing loss can have on your overall health is explored in this study.
This substantial and well-structured study forces us to reconsider hearing loss as a society.
How the study was conducted
Over 2000 individuals 50 or older were surveyed in this research conducted by committed researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). People with untreated hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. Clinically pertinent questions were asked to determine the levels of the following:
- Isolation
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
The study took a ground-breaking step by introducing over 2000 family members of the study participants. What they reported helped to give the participant’s comments validity. With this additional verification, this study becomes even more pertinent when we talk about the effects of hearing loss.
How depression affects health and quality of life
According to the American Psychological Association, those suffering from depression are more likely to experience eating disorders that can lead to acute obesity or significant loss of weight. They are more likely to experience insomnia and loss of memory.
While driving, cooking, and other activities, their reduced reaction time can lead to severe injury. Healing is slower in individuals who suffer from depression and that can result in longer hospital stays.
Depression can increase the risk of falling in older adults.
Depression worsens as hearing loss advances. The person often becomes more and more isolated, lonely, and unable to care for themselves.
Now, let’s take a look at a really sad statistic.
Usage rates of hearing aids
Only about 25% of those who would benefit from hearing aids actually use them. That’s right. Many individuals have the ability to protect themselves from depression by using hearing aids but for some reason abstain from taking the steps.
Why do so many individuals neglect using a hearing aid?
Many individuals who don’t use a hearing aid actually do own one. They think it makes them look old so they just neglect wearing it. They’re embarrassed.
These people would benefit from a hearing aid upgrade. Contemporary 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 considerable number of individuals say they can’t afford one. The connection between disregarded hearing loss and general health risks is now beginning to be recognized by states and insurance companies. Hearing aids are, due to this, becoming more available and affordable. And neglected hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which most individuals don’t take into account. They don’t understand how hearing loss effects their overall life. Unaddressed hearing loss can increase your total healthcare costs by as much as 40% in just a few years.
How can hearing related depression symptoms be reduced?
Wear your hearing aid proudly. Show people how much healthier you can feel when you’re able to hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help remove the stigma.
Take a little time to master the advanced features of your modern hearing aid to maximize your hearing experience in every situation. If you’re just turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid for a while, meet with us for a demo.
Consult us right away about the most effective way to utilize your hearing aid, particularly if you feel like you’re not getting the most out of it and are tempted to leave it at home.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss