There’s a very simple message for anyone struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study revealed that people were less likely to develop health problems such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls if they started using hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss. While this doesn’t prove hearing aids prevent these health issues, their use is connected with fewer health problems. Results from the study demonstrated that hearing aid users were 18% less likely to develop dementia, 11% less likely to develop depression or anxiety, and 13% less likely to suffer a dangerous fall.
Stop The Excuses
It’s worthwhile to consider that regarding your health, these numbers may seem low but they’re still significant. Prior research has revealed a link between hearing loss and other significant health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, worsening problem. It’s significant to remember that many individuals diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother getting hearing aids. Why not? Not having the proper insurance to cover some of the costs is a typical issue. And the expense may still seem too high even with insurance.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and bringing them home only to let them sit in the case because using them feels like too much of a hassle. Many people don’t view hearing impairment as an important concern because they can turn up the TV volume to solve the problem.
While it may seem like hearing loss is inevitable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and cranking up the volume is not the right answer.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Hearing is obviously a large part of communication. If your failure to communicate causes you to miss an important instruction by your doctor or direction by a family member, that’s an issue. As a result, you might not be capable of conveying your symptoms and concerns.
There are also some less obvious issues related to poor communication. If trying to have phone conversations leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may begin to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And obviously, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which happens when you can’t hear.
Hearing Aid Benefits
Getting a hearing aid isn’t all about severe, long-term concerns. Wearing a hearing aid will instantly improve your quality of life, as well as your long-term outlook. You will have a more fulfilling social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and take part in conversations. When you can communicate clearly with your doctor, you can effectively share the health concerns you are experiencing and understand your doctor’s treatment plan to reduce your anxiety even more.
Should I get hearing aids? The answer is yes if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Asking others to repeat what they said constantly
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you avoid social situations
- Turning the volume of the TV up very high
- Background sound makes it difficult to hear when someone is speaking to you
These and perhaps other symptoms might be a signal that it’s time to consider getting a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the correct option for you, particularly if any of these symptoms sound familiar.