It is normal for individuals to disregard hearing loss as a typical part of getting older, similar to needing bifocals or finding a couple of gray hairs. But recent studies suggests it’s far more prevalent. Research carried out by Duke-NUS Medical School uncovered a significant connection between unaddressed hearing loss and a shorter lifespan among elderly individuals.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual difficulties are more susceptible to suffering from depression, feeling isolated from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss might actually shorten your lifespan. The dangers dramatically escalate when hearing loss is combined with additional sensory impairments, like impaired vision.
Research data indicate that individuals who experience dual sensory impairments, impacting both their hearing and vision, face substantially greater challenges in performing daily activities including personal care, meal preparation, and medication management, causing considerable losses of freedom and overall well-being.
Why hearing loss is connected to weak overall health
There is a substantial connection between hearing loss and various other health conditions that surpasses coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing impairment are more likely to experience:
- High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased prevalence of smoking or hazardous lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is because hearing is impacted by blood circulation to some degree. The inner ear depends on a healthy supply of blood to function. When blood vessels are narrowed by high blood pressure or smoking, for example, your hearing might suffer. In fact, some individuals experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a sign of vascular problems.
In addition to affecting your ears, hearing loss also puts stress on your brain. When sound signals are vague, your brain must exert more effort to translate and understand spoken language. Using added mental energy can hamper your brain’s capacity to absorb and keep knowledge, potentially speeding up mental decline.
The emotional and social toll of hearing loss
In addition to the physical impacts, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Many individuals with hearing difficulties start to disengage socially because it becomes harder and more frustrating to engage in conversations. This seclusion often leads to:
- Loneliness and reduced social activity
- Greater susceptibility to disorders and emotional stress
- A deterioration in psychological and emotional health
The effects can accumulate gradually, resulting in a decline in both mental and physical well-being.
Simple steps to improve hearing and total health
The good news is that hearing impairment is treatable, and dealing with it early makes a huge difference. Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule a hearing evaluation– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can identify any issues before they worsen.
- Think about Contemporary options like hearing aid, they are sleek, technologically advanced, and remarkably adept at reducing distractions from outside sounds.
- Increase your nutrients. Key vitamins and minerals, such as iron, B12, and folate play a critical role in preserving healthy hearing. Consult your doctor or a nutritionist for guidance.
- Regulating underlying medical issues, including heart conditions or anemia, can have a positive effect on hearing.
Start dealing with your hearing health now.
You don’t have to let hearing loss dictate your daily life or effect your overall longevity. When detected and managed early, hearing loss can be managed effectively, improving not just your hearing but your mood, memory, and longevity.
If you’re noticing changes in your hearing or struggling to hear conversations, don’t wait. Taking the time to undergo a hearing assessment can have a profound and long-lasting impact on your general health and quality of life.
Reach out to us now to book an appointment for a hearing exam and begin your journey towards improved health.
