For anyone suffering from hearing loss, the message is simple: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study revealed that individuals who received hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss were less likely to experience depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls than people who did not get hearing aids. While these health problems aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been connected to their use. The study reveals 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
If these figures seem low to you, it’s important to remember that your health is at risk, and every little bit counts. Prior studies have shown a link between hearing loss and other significant health issues, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, worsening issue. It’s essential to remember that many individuals diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother getting hearing aids. Why not? Not having the correct insurance to cover some of the costs is a typical issue. And the expense might still be too high even for those who have insurance.
Some people actually go in and get fitted but when they get their hearing aid home, it feels like too much hassle to wear them, so they don’t. Many people don’t view hearing loss as a major issue because they can turn the volume of the TV up to solve the problem.
Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the problem, however, and while hearing loss may seem to be an unavoidable part of getting older, there is much more to it.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Obviously, a primary aspect of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate effectively, you may not understand questions asked by your physicians or family members. Consequently, communicating your concerns and symptoms will be difficult.
Other concerns related to a lack of reliable communication are less obvious. If trying to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may begin to lose touch with people in your support system. Not being able to hear may even result in less brain stimulation, and we all know that exercising your mind can help combat dementia.
Hearing Aid Advantages
Extreme long-term challenges are not all that wearing hearing aids is about. Your long term outlook will definitely improve but hearing aids will instantly enhance your quality of life. If you can hear and participate in conversations, it minimizes your chances of feeling isolated and allows you to participate more completely in your social life. When you can communicate clearly with your physician, you can effectively share the health concerns you are experiencing and understand your doctor’s treatment plan to decrease your anxiety further.
Do I need hearing aids? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Difficulty hearing the person you are talking to if there is background noise
- Watching TV at extreme volume
- Asking people to repeat what they said frequently
- Being so intimidated that you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social situations
These are only a few of the symptoms that could reveal you should consider a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to find out if a hearing aid is the right option for you, especially if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
