There’s a very basic message for anyone struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study revealed that individuals who received hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment were less likely to experience dementia, depression, anxiety, and dangerous falls than those who did not get hearing aids. While these health issues aren’t proven to be eliminated by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been connected to their use. 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 suffer a serious fall.
Refrain From Making Excuses
If these figures seem low to you, it’s important to recall that your health is at risk, and every little bit counts. Previous research has shown a link between hearing loss and other significant health issues, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, declining issue. But many people who have hearing impairment don’t address it or ever use hearing aids. Why not? For many, the absence of insurance coverage is a problem. Even among people with insurance, the expense might be too high.
Some individuals actually go in and get fitted but when they bring their hearing aid home, it feels like too much trouble to use them, so they don’t. Most individuals just turn up the volume to solve the dilemma and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the issue, though, and while hearing loss may seem to be an inevitable part of getting older, there is far more to it.
Healthy Hearing is Vital
Hearing is obviously a huge element of communication. Without the ability to communicate correctly, you might not comprehend questions posed by your physicians or family members. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be a challenge.
There are also some less apparent issues connected with inadequate communication. If trying to have phone conversations leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may begin to lose touch with people in your support system. And clearly, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulus which occurs when you can’t hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Getting a hearing aid isn’t only about serious, long-term concerns. Using a hearing aid will instantly improve your quality of life, as well as 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 intelligibly with your doctor, you can accurately share the health problems you are experiencing and understand your doctor’s treatment plan to decrease your anxiety further.
Is it time to look into a hearing aid? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Frequently wanting people to repeat what they said
- Background sound makes it difficult to hear when somebody is speaking to you
- Watching TV at very high volume
- Being so intimidated that you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social interaction
These and possibly other symptoms could be an indication that it’s time to think about getting a hearing aid. Come see us to determine if a hearing aid is the right option for you, particularly if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.