As we get older, we all know that hearing loss and specific mental health challenges can progress despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And a strong connection between the two has been observed by scientists which should never be ignored. So don’t turn off that hearing aid.

Depression is twice as likely in people who have untreated hearing loss. Compared to individuals who use a hearing aid, frequent feelings of sadness were reported 27% more in those who have neglected hearing loss.

They were also 39% more likely to feel that those around them get upset for “no reason” and 24% more likely to steer clear of social experiences they once loved.

Let’s look at this fascinating study and an even sadder statistic you won’t want to hear but should be aware of. Keep that hearing aid turned on!

This study turns our thoughts about hearing loss on their heads

Age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a harmless affliction for centuries. It was widely believed that compensation would come from all of the other senses. People would just go on with their lives attempting to live safely, healthily, and happily. Beyond hearing impairment, it was believed that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.

Now we know better. One of the impacts hearing loss can have on your general health is investigated in this study.

As a society, we will need to rethink hearing loss based on this well-structured and important study.

How was this study done?

Over 2000 individuals 50 or older were surveyed in this study conducted by committed researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). People with untreated hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. They asked clinically-relevant questions to identify the levels of:

• Paranoia
• Depression
• Isolation
• Anxiety

The study took a ground-breaking step by including more than 2000 family members of the research participants. They did this to help corroborate what the participants were self-reporting. With this added verification, this research becomes even more significant when we discuss the effects of hearing loss.

How health and quality of life are impacted by depression

According to the American Psychological Association, those who struggle with depression are more likely to develop eating disorders that can lead to acute obesity or significant loss of weight. They are more likely to experience insomnia and memory loss.

While driving, cooking, and other activities, their diminished reaction time can lead to severe injury. Those with depression have even been found to heal less quickly, causing complications and lengthy hospital stays.

The chance of falling for older people is also elevated when a person suffers from depression.

Depression worsens as hearing loss advances. The person often becomes more and more secluded, lonely, and unable to care for themselves.

But there’s an even sadder statistic.

Hearing aid usage rates

About 75% of people who need hearing aids don’t wear them. Yup! For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its unwanted effects are entirely unnecessary and preventable, yet they are not taking steps to stop it.

Why do so many people avoid using a hearing aid?

Many individuals who don’t wear a hearing aid actually do own one. They just don’t use it because it makes them “look old.” They’re embarrassed.

A hearing aid update would be advantageous for these individuals. Modern hearing aids work better, and they are also more discreet and let people sync with devices. This makes them feel less like a hearing aid and more like an extension of their smart tech.

A smaller but considerable number of individuals say they can’t afford one. The link between untreated hearing loss and general health risks is now beginning to be acknowledged by states and insurance companies. Hearing aids are, because of this, becoming more accessible and cost-effective. And untreated hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which most individuals don’t take into account. They don’t recognize how hearing loss effects their overall life. Untreated hearing loss can increase your total healthcare costs by as much as 4o percent in only a few years.

What can be done to reduce hearing-associated depression symptoms?

Be proud to wear your hearing aid. Show people how much healthier you can feel when you’re able to hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help erase the stigma.

Take some time to master the advanced features of your modern hearing aid to optimize your hearing experience in every situation. If you’re only turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most from your hearing aid. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid in a while, meet with us for a demo.

If you feel like you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to leave it off, speak with us today about how to make use of your hearing aid more successfully.

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment

References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss