As we get older, we all know that hearing loss and certain mental health concerns can get worse despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And a strong link between the two has been observed by scientists which should never be dismissed. So keep that hearing aid turned on.
Depression is two times as likely in individuals who are dealing with untreated hearing loss. Nearly 27% more people with untreated hearing loss reported “often feeling sad” in contrast to those who used a hearing aid.
They were also 24% more likely to quit doing things they used to love and 39% more likely to feel like people are angry with them for no reason.
There’s an even sadder statistic you should be aware of, though you won’t like it very much. Keep that hearing aid turned on!
This study turns our ideas about hearing loss upside down
Age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a harmless affliction for centuries. It was believed that the other senses would merely compensate. People would just go on with their lives attempting to live safely, healthily, and happily. Apart from hearing impairment, it was thought that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.
Of course we now know that’s not the situation. One of the effects hearing loss can have on your overall health is explored in this study.
As a society, we will need to reconsider hearing loss based on this well-structured and important study.
How was this study done?
Over 2000 people 50 or older were surveyed in this study carried out by dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). People with neglected hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. Clinically relevant questions were asked to determine the levels of the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Isolation
- Paranoia
The study took a ground-breaking step by including over 2000 family members of the research participants. What they documented helped to give the participant’s comments validity. When we talk about hearing loss, this study, with the extra verification, becomes even more relevant.
How depression impacts health and quality of life
According to the American Psychological Association, those suffering from depression are more likely to experience eating disorders that can cause severe obesity or extreme loss of weight. Memory loss and insomnia are also more predominant in those with untreated hearing loss.
They have reduced reaction time, which can result in severe injuries while cooking, cleaning, driving, and other activities. Those with depression have even been found to heal more slowly, leading to complications and lengthy hospital stays.
Depression can increase the risk of falling in older adults.
As the hearing loss progresses, so does the depression. The individual often becomes less capable of caring for themselves as loneliness and solitude set in.
Now, let’s look at a really sad statistic.
Hearing aid usage rates
Around 75% of people who should use hearing aids don’t wear them. Yup! Many individuals have the ability to protect themselves from depression by wearing hearing aids but for some reason abstain from taking the steps.
Why so many choose not to wear a hearing aid
When asked why they don’t use a hearing aid, many individuals say they do own one. They simply don’t wear it because it makes them “look old.” They’re embarrassed.
These people would benefit from a hearing aid upgrade. Modern hearing aids work better, and they are also more unobtrusive and allow people to sync with devices. This makes them feel less like a hearing aid and more like an extension of their smart tech.
Price is also a problem for a smaller yet substantial number of people. The link between disregarded hearing loss and overall health hazards is now starting to be recognized by states and insurance companies. Hearing aids are, because of this, becoming more accessible and affordable. And untreated hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which most individuals don’t think about. They’re not aware of how hearing loss will impact their health and quality of life. Untreated hearing loss can increase your overall healthcare costs by as much as 4o percent in just a few years.
What can you do to lessen hearing-associated depression symptoms?
Wear your hearing aid proudly. Help fight the stigma people feel about wearing a hearing aid by showing them how much healthier you feel when you can hear.
Take a little time to master the advanced features of your modern hearing aid to optimize your hearing experience in every situation. If you’re just turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid for a while, meet with us for a demo.
If you feel you aren’t getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to leave it off, talk to us today about how to make use of your hearing aid more effectively.
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References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss