For anyone suffering from hearing loss, the message is straightforward: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study found that people were not as likely to develop health problems such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls if they started wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment. While this doesn’t prove hearing aids stop these health issues, their use is connected with fewer health issues. The study shows that seniors who use hearing aids had a 13% less likely chance of having a serious fall. They also had an 18% less likely chance of developing dementia and an 11% less likelihood of developing anxiety and depression.
Avoid Making Excuses
It’s worthwhile to keep in mind that regarding your health, these figures might appear low but they’re still considerable. Previous studies have revealed a correlation between hearing loss and other significant health issues, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, worsening issue. It’s significant to note that many people diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother buying hearing aids. Why not? Not having the correct insurance to cover some of the expenses is a typical problem. Even among those who have insurance, the cost might seem too high.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and taking them home only to let them sit in the case because using them feels like too much of an inconvenience. Most people simply turn up the volume to solve the dilemma and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
While it might seem like hearing loss is inevitable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and turning up the volume is not the right solution.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Hearing is clearly a large part of communication. If your failure to communicate causes you to miss an essential instruction by your physician or direction by a family member, that’s a problem. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be a challenge.
Other concerns associated with a lack of reliable communication are less apparent. If attempting to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may begin to lose touch with individuals 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 combat dementia.
Hearing Aid Advantages
Buying 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 wellbeing. You will have a more fulfilling social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and engage in conversations. You will minimize your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health issues with your doctor and comprehending his advice for treatment.
Is it time to look into a hearing aid? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Avoiding social situations for fear you can’t follow conversations
- Constantly wanting people to repeat what they said
- Watching TV at extreme volume
- Difficulty hearing the person you’re talking to if there is background noise
These are only some of the symptoms that may reveal you need to look into a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid may be the right option for you.
