There’s a very simple message for anybody struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study found that individuals 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 get hearing aids. While these health issues aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health problems have been connected to their use. Results from the study revealed 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 dangerous fall.
Avoid Making Excuses
It’s worthwhile to consider that regarding your health, these numbers may appear low but they’re still significant. Previous research has demonstrated a connection between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, worsening problem. It’s significant to note that many individuals diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother buying hearing aids. Why not? Not having the proper insurance to cover some of the expenses is a typical problem. Even among those with insurance, the cost might be too high.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and bringing them home only to let them sit in the case because wearing them feels like too much of a hassle. Most individuals simply turn up the volume to solve the problem and don’t think about hearing loss as much of an issue.
Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the problem, however, and while hearing loss may seem to be an inevitable part of getting older, there is far more to it.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Obviously, a major element of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate effectively, you might not comprehend questions asked by your doctors or family members. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be challenging.
There are also some less apparent problems connected with inadequate communication. If trying to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may start to lose touch with people in your support system. And obviously, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulus which happens when you are unable to hear.
Hearing Aid Advantages
Getting a hearing aid isn’t only about serious, long-term concerns. Your long term wellbeing will certainly improve but hearing aids will immediately improve your quality of life. If you can hear and participate in conversations, it reduces your chances of feeling isolated and allows you to participate more completely in your social life. You will decrease your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health concerns with your physician and understanding his advice for treatment.
Is it time to consider a hearing aid? The answer is yes if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Being so intimidated that you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social interaction
- Turning the volume of the TV up very high
- Background sound makes it difficult to hear when someone is speaking to you
- Frequently needing people to repeat what they said
These and potentially other symptoms might be an indication that it’s time to think about getting a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the right choice for you, particularly if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.