There’s a very simple message for anyone struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study found that people were less likely to develop health problems like depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls if they started wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment. While this doesn’t prove hearing aids prevent these health issues, their use is associated with fewer health issues. 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.
Stop The Excuses
It’s worthwhile to consider that regarding your health, these figures may appear low but they’re still significant. Prior studies have revealed a link between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, declining problem. But many individuals who have hearing loss don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? Not having the correct insurance to cover some of the costs is a common problem. Even among those with insurance, the cost might be too high.
Some individuals actually go in and get fitted but when they bring their hearing aid home, it feels like too much trouble to use them, so they don’t. Most individuals simply turn up the volume to solve the problem and don’t think about hearing loss as much of a problem.
While it might seem like hearing loss is inescapable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and cranking the volume up is not the right solution.
Healthy Hearing is Important
Hearing is obviously a large part of communication. Without the ability to communicate effectively, you may not understand questions asked by your physicians or family. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be challenging.
There are also some less obvious issues related to inadequate communication. If attempting to have phone conversations leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may begin to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And clearly, your chance of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which happens when you can’t hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Serious long-term concerns aren’t all that getting hearing aids is about. Using a hearing aid will instantly enhance your quality of life, as well as your long-term wellbeing. You will have a more satisfying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. You will reduce your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health issues with your physician and understanding his guidance for treatment.
Do I need hearing aids? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Asking others to repeat what they said constantly
- Trouble hearing the person you’re speaking to if there’s background sound
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social interaction
- Turning the volume of the TV way up
These are only a few of the symptoms that may reveal you should consider a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to find out if a hearing aid is the best choice for you, particularly if any of these symptoms sound familiar.