For anybody suffering from hearing loss, the message is simple: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study revealed that people who obtained hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment were less likely to experience depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls than people who didn’t receive hearing aids. While this doesn’t prove hearing aids stop these health problems, their use is associated with fewer health problems. The study reveals 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 depression and anxiety.
Stop The Excuses
It’s important to keep in mind that when it comes to your health, these numbers might seem low but they’re still considerable. Previous studies have revealed a connection between hearing loss and other significant health issues, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining issue. But many people 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 issue. Even among people who have insurance, the cost could be too high.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and bringing them home only to let them sit in the case because wearing them seems like too much of a hassle. Many people don’t view hearing impairment as a major issue because they can turn the volume of the TV up to solve the problem.
While it may seem as if hearing loss is unavoidable as you age, there’s more to it than that, and cranking the volume up is not the correct answer.
Healthy Hearing is Vital
Hearing is obviously a large element of communication. Without the ability to communicate precisely, you may not understand questions posed by your physicians or family members. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be a challenge.
There are also some less obvious problems connected with inadequate communication. When you struggle to hear and keep up with a conversation on the phone, you might lose touch with some of the people in your support system out of frustration or embarrassment. And clearly, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulus which occurs when you are unable to hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Getting a hearing aid isn’t only about serious, long-term worries. Your long term outlook will certainly improve but hearing aids will immediately improve your quality of life. You will have a more fulfilling social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. You will reduce your anxiety even further when you are capable of precisely communicating your health concerns with your doctor and comprehending his advice for treatment.
Is it time to consider a hearing aid? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Background noise makes it hard to hear when someone is speaking to you
- Watching TV at very loud volume
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social interaction
- Frequently wanting people to repeat what they said
These are only some of the symptoms that may signify you need to consider a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the best choice for you, especially if any of these symptoms sound familiar.