Even if you have an active, healthy lifestyle, you could experience hearing loss and specific cognitive concerns as you get older. And a strong link between the two has been discovered by scientists which should never be overlooked. So keep that hearing aid turned on.
People with neglected hearing loss are two times as likely to cope with depression. Nearly 27% more individuals with neglected hearing loss reported “frequently feeling sad” compared to those who used a hearing aid.
They were also 24% more likely to quit doing things they once loved and 39% more likely to feel as if people are angry with them for no reason.
Let’s look at this fascinating study and an even sadder statistic you won’t want to hear but should be aware of. Keep that hearing aid turned on!
Our ideas about hearing loss will be completely changed by this study
Age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a harmless affliction for centuries. It was thought that the other senses would merely compensate. The person would simply get by and go on to live the rest of their life healthily, safely, and happily. Apart from hearing impairment, it was believed that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.
Of course we now know that’s not the situation. This study establishes just one of the greater 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 was this study done?
Over 2000 individuals 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 users and those with neglected hearing loss. Clinically relevant questions were asked to establish the levels of the following:
- Paranoia
- Isolation
- Anxiety
- Depression
The study took a ground-breaking step by introducing over 2000 family members of the research participants. What they reported helped to give the participant’s statements validity. When we discuss hearing loss, this research, with the extra verification, becomes even more pertinent.
How health and quality of life are affected by depression
Eating disorders such as acute obesity or extreme weight loss are more likely in individuals who cope with depression, according to the American Psychological Association. They are more likely to suffer from insomnia and memory loss.
They have decreased reaction time, which can lead to severe injuries while cooking, cleaning, driving, and other activities. Healing is slower in people who suffer from depression and that can result in longer hospital stays.
The danger of falling for older people is also elevated when a person has depression.
Depression progresses as hearing loss progresses. The person becomes less able to care for themselves as loneliness and isolation set in.
Now, let’s look at a really sad statistic.
Hearing aid usage rates
Around 75% of people who need hearing aids don’t wear them. That’s right. For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its unwanted impacts are entirely unnecessary and preventable, yet they are not taking steps to stop it.
Why so many choose not to wear a hearing aid
Many people who don’t wear a hearing aid actually do own one. They think it makes them look old so they just avoid wearing it. It makes them embarrassed.
These people would benefit from a hearing aid upgrade. Modern hearing aids work better, and they are also more discreet and allow people to sync with devices. This makes them feel more like an extension of your smart tech and less like a hearing aid.
Price is also an issue for a smaller but significant number of people. The connection between untreated hearing loss and general health risks is now starting to be acknowledged by states and insurance companies. They are helping to make hearing aids more affordable and accessible. Additionally, people who object to the cost of hearing aids also don’t understand how much-neglected hearing loss can cost them over time. They don’t understand how hearing loss effects their overall life. Neglected hearing loss can increase your overall healthcare costs by as much as 4o percent in only a few years.
What can be done to minimize hearing-associated depression symptoms?
Wear your hearing aid with pride. Show people how much healthier you can feel when you can hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help erase the stigma.
Optimize 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. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid for a while, contact us for a demo.
Consult us right away about the most effective way to utilize your hearing aid, especially if you recognize that 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
