For anybody experiencing hearing loss, the message is simple: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study revealed that individuals who received hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment were less likely to develop depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls than people who did not get hearing aids. While these health concerns aren’t proven to be eliminated by hearing aids, fewer health problems have been linked to their use. Results from the study demonstrated that hearing aid users were 18% less likely to develop dementia, 11% less likely to develop depression or anxiety, and 13% less likely to have a dangerous fall.
Avoid Making Excuses
It’s important to consider that regarding your health, these numbers may seem low but they’re still considerable. Previous research has revealed a connection between hearing loss and other significant health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining problem. But many individuals who have hearing impairment don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? Not having the proper insurance to cover some of the costs is a common problem. Even among those with insurance, the cost might seem too high.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and bringing them home only to leave them in the case because using them seems like too much of an inconvenience. Many people don’t view hearing impairment as an important issue because they can turn the volume of the TV up to solve the problem.
Higher volume on the TV won’t solve the issue, however, and while hearing loss may seem to be an unavoidable part of getting older, there is a lot more to it.
Healthy Hearing is Vital
Hearing is clearly a big element of communication. Without the ability to communicate precisely, you may not understand questions posed by your doctors or family. Consequently, communicating your concerns and symptoms will be challenging.
There are also some less apparent issues associated with poor communication. When you strain to hear and follow a conversation on the phone, you may lose touch with some of the people in your support system due to embarrassment and frustration. And clearly, your chance of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulus which happens when you can’t hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Buying a hearing aid isn’t all about serious, long-term concerns. Your long term wellbeing will definitely improve but hearing aids will instantly improve your quality of life. 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 doctor and comprehending his advice for treatment.
Is it time to look into a hearing aid? The answer is yes if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Watching TV at extreme volume
- Trouble hearing the person you’re speaking to if there’s background sound
- Being so intimidated that you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social situations
- Asking others to repeat what they said frequently
These are only some of the symptoms that may signify you should consider a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid may be right for you.
