For anyone dealing with hearing loss, the message is straightforward: 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 develop depression, anxiety, dementia, and hazardous falls than those who did not receive hearing aids. While this doesn’t prove hearing aids stop these health problems, their use is associated with fewer health problems. Results from the study showed 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 serious fall.
Stop The Excuses
It’s worthwhile to consider that when it comes to your health, these figures may appear low but they’re still significant. Previous research has shown a correlation between hearing loss and other significant health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining issue. But many individuals who have hearing impairment don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? Not having the appropriate insurance to cover some of the costs is a typical problem. And the cost might still seem too high even with insurance.
Some individuals actually go in and get fitted but when they bring their hearing aid home, it feels like too much hassle to wear them, so they don’t. Most individuals just turn up the volume to solve the problem and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
While it might seem like hearing loss is inescapable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and cranking up the volume is not the correct solution.
Healthy Hearing is Vital
Clearly, a major aspect of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate correctly, you might not understand questions posed by your physicians or family. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be difficult.
There are also some less apparent issues related to poor communication. If trying to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling frustrated and embarrassed, you might begin to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And clearly, your chance of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulation which happens when you are unable to hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Buying a hearing aid isn’t all about extreme, long-term worries. Using a hearing aid will immediately improve your quality of life, in addition to your long-term outlook. You will have a more satisfying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. When you can communicate clearly with your physician, you can accurately share the health issues you are experiencing and understand your doctor’s treatment plan to reduce your anxiety further.
Is it time to consider a hearing aid? The answer is yes if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Avoiding social interaction because you’re afraid you can’t follow conversations
- Watching TV at very loud volume
- Trouble hearing the person you are talking to if there is background sound
- Asking people to repeat themselves frequently
These and potentially other symptoms could be a signal that it’s time to think about getting a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid may be the right choice for you.