Even if you have an active, healthy lifestyle, you could develop hearing loss and specific cognitive challenges as you grow older. And a strong link between the two has been recognized by scientists which should never be ignored. So don’t turn off that hearing aid.
Depression is two times as likely in people who have untreated hearing loss. Nearly 27% more people with neglected hearing loss reported “frequently feeling sad” compared to people who used a hearing aid.
They were also 24% more likely to quit doing things they once loved and 39% more likely to feel like people are angry with them for no reason.
There’s an even sadder statistic you should be aware of, though you won’t really like it. Don’t turn off that hearing aid!
This study turns our thoughts about hearing loss on their heads
Age-related hearing loss has been considered a harmless condition for centuries. It was believed that the other senses would merely compensate. The person would just get by and go on to live the rest of their life healthily, safely, and happily. Hearing loss was not believed to have any health affects besides the hearing impairment.
Of course we now know that’s not the situation. This study illustrates just one of the larger effects that hearing loss has on a person’s general health.
This substantial and well-structured study forces us to reconsider hearing loss as a society.
How the research was carried out
Over 2000 individuals 50 or older were surveyed in this study conducted by dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). Individuals with neglected hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. Clinically pertinent questions were asked to establish the levels of the following:
- Isolation
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
More than 2000 family members of the participants were also included in this ground-breaking study. They did this to help corroborate what the participants were reporting. When we talk about hearing loss, this study, with the added verification, becomes even more relevant.
How depression affects health and quality of life
Eating disorders such as acute obesity or significant weight loss are more likely in individuals who suffer from depression, according to the American Psychological Association. They are more likely to experience insomnia and memory loss.
They have reduced reaction time, which can lead to severe injuries whilst cooking, driving, cleaning, and other activities. Those with depression have even been found to heal more slowly, leading to complications and lengthy hospital stays.
The chance of falls for older people is also elevated when an individual suffers from depression.
Depression worsens as hearing loss progresses. The person usually becomes more and more secluded, lonely, and unable to care for him or herself.
But there’s an even sadder statistic.
Usage rates of hearing aids
Around 75% of people who should use hearing aids don’t use them. That’s right. Many individuals have the ability to protect themselves from depression by wearing hearing aids but for some reason avoid taking the steps.
Why do so many individuals neglect using a hearing aid?
Many individuals who don’t wear a hearing aid actually do own one. They simply don’t use it because it makes them “look old.” It makes them embarrassed.
These individuals would benefit from a hearing aid upgrade. Today’s hearing aids can sync to your smart devices, work better, and are more subtle. This makes them seem more like an extension of your smart tech and less like a hearing aid.
A smaller but significant number of individuals say they can’t afford one. States and insurance companies are now recognizing the link between untreated hearing loss and total health. They are helping to make hearing aids more affordable and accessible. In addition, individuals who object to the price of hearing aids also don’t recognize how much-untreated hearing loss can cost them over time. They’re not aware of how hearing loss will impact their health and quality of life. In just a few years, your overall health cost can increase by as much as 40% because of neglected hearing loss.
How can hearing related depression symptoms be decreased?
Have pride in wearing your hearing aid. Show people how much healthier you can feel when you’re able to hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help get rid of the stigma.
Optimize your hearing in every situation with your modern hearing aid by taking a little time to learn the advanced features. If you’re just turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid. Get a consultation with us so you can try out these upgraded hearing aids.
If you feel you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to not use it, speak with us today about how to use your hearing aid more effectively.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss
