For anyone experiencing hearing impairment, the message is simple: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study revealed that individuals who got hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss were less likely to develop depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls than those who did not get hearing aids. While these health concerns aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health problems have been linked to their use. The study shows that seniors who use hearing aids had a 13% less likely chance of having a hazardous 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 important to keep in mind that regarding your health, these numbers may appear low but they’re still significant. Previous research has demonstrated a link between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, worsening issue. But many people who have hearing loss don’t address it or ever use hearing aids. Why not? For many, the lack of insurance coverage is a problem. And the cost may still seem too high even with insurance.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and taking them home only to leave them in the case because wearing them feels like too much of a hassle. Most people simply turn up the volume to solve the dilemma and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
While it may seem like hearing loss is unavoidable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and cranking up the volume is not the best answer.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Obviously, a major element of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate correctly, you might not comprehend questions asked by your physicians or family members. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be a challenge.
There are also some less apparent problems connected with poor communication. When you strain to hear and follow a conversation on the phone, you might lose touch with some of the people in your support system out of embarrassment and frustration. And clearly, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which happens when you can’t hear.
Hearing Aid Advantages
Buying a hearing aid isn’t all about extreme, long-term concerns. Wearing a hearing aid will instantly improve your quality of life, as well as your long-term wellbeing. You will have a more fulfilling social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and take part in conversations. You will reduce your anxiety even further when you are capable of precisely communicating your health concerns with your physician and comprehending his guidance for treatment.
Should I get hearing aids? If you have any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Avoiding social situations for fear you can’t follow conversations
- Constantly wanting people to repeat what they said
- Trouble hearing the person you’re talking to if there’s background sound
- Watching TV at extreme volume
These are only a few of the symptoms that might indicate you should consider a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid might be the right choice for you.