There’s a very basic message for anyone struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study found that people were less likely to develop health problems like anxiety, dementia, depression, and dangerous falls if they began wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss. While these health problems aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been linked to their use. 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 anxiety and depression.
Stop The Excuses
If these numbers seem low to you, it’s important to recall that your health is at stake, and every little bit counts. Previous studies have shown a connection between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, declining problem. It’s important to remember that many people diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother buying hearing aids. Why not? For many, the absence of insurance coverage is a problem. And the cost may still seem too high even for those who have insurance.
Some individuals actually go in and get fitted but when they get their hearing aid home, it feels like too much hassle to wear them, so they don’t. Many individuals don’t view hearing impairment as a major issue because they can turn up the TV volume to solve the problem.
Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the issue, though, and while hearing loss may seem to be an inevitable part of growing older, there is much more to it.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Clearly, a principal element of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate effectively, you might not comprehend questions asked by your physicians or family members. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be challenging.
Other concerns related to a lack of reliable communication are less obvious. If attempting to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you might start to lose touch with people in your support system. Not being able to hear may even lead to less brain stimulation, and we all know that exercising your mind can help fend off dementia.
The Advantages of Hearing Aids
Serious long-term concerns aren’t all that getting hearing aids is about. Your long term outlook will certainly improve but hearing aids will instantly enhance your quality of life. You will have a more gratifying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. You will decrease your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health concerns with your doctor and comprehending his advice for treatment.
Should I get hearing aids? If you have any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Turning the volume of the TV up very high
- Difficulty hearing the person you are talking to if there is background noise
- Asking others to repeat what they said frequently
- Avoiding social interaction because you’re afraid you can’t follow conversations
These are only a few of the symptoms that could signify you should look into a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid might be right for you.