Hearing loss is typically brushed off as a normal part of getting older, like needing bifocals or observing a few gray hairs. But new research suggests it’s far more prevalent. Research carried out by Duke-NUS Medical School uncovered a considerable connection between unaddressed hearing impairments and a shorter lifespan among older individuals.
Elderly individuals experiencing hearing or visual impairments are more vulnerable to developing depression, feeling disconnected from others, and facing challenges with mental processing and memory. What’s surprising is that neglected hearing loss may actually shorten your lifespan. The risks increase substantially when hearing loss is coupled with other sensory impairments, such as poor vision.
Research findings indicate that individuals who experience dual sensory impairments, affecting both their hearing and vision, face considerably greater challenges in performing day-to-day activities including personal care, meal planning, and medication management, resulting in considerable losses of freedom and general well-being.
Why hearing loss is linked to poor overall health
The link between hearing loss and other medical conditions isn’t just a coincidence.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to experience:
- Elevated blood pressure and heart-related conditions
- Greater chance of suffering a stroke
- Increased occurrence of smoking or hazardous lifestyle behaviors
- Decrease in mental functioning, including dementia and Alzheimer’s
This is likely due in part to how blood circulation impacts hearing. The effective functioning of the inner ear relies on having an adequet supply of blood. If blood flow is reduced due to conditions like high blood pressure or smoking, it can negatively impact your hearing. As a matter of fact, some individuals experience a whooshing or pulsing sound in their ears, which can be a symptom of vascular issues.
In addition to affecting your ears, hearing loss also puts a strain on your brain. When sound signals are vague, your brain needs to exert more effort to decipher and comprehend spoken language. This additional effort might reduce your ability to process and retain information, raising the risk of cognitive decline.
The impact of hearing loss on emotions and social interactions
In addition to the physical effects, neglected hearing loss can impact your emotional health. Individuals with hearing loss frequently begin to isolate themselves from social interactions due to the increasing difficulties and annoyances of taking part in discussions. This solitude frequently results in:
- Loneliness and decreased social activity
- Greater vulnerability to disorders and emotional distress
- A decline in cognitive and emotional wellness
These repercussions can magnify over time, contributing to a downward spiral in both cognitive and physical health.
Simple steps to improve hearing and total health
The good news is that hearing loss is treatable, and catching it early makes a huge difference. strategies for Action:
- Schedule a hearing evaluation– Even if you have mild symptoms, a test can identify any issues before they get worse.
- Think about hearing aids– Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and highly effective at filtering background sounds.
- Improve your nutrition– Nutrients like iron, B12, and folate support hearing health. Seek advice from a personalized healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
- Address underlying health conditions– Treating cardiovascular issues or anemia can also help preserve hearing.
Take charge of your hearing health today
Hearing loss doesn’t have to control your life– or shorten it. Identifying and managing hearing loss early can result in successful treatment, enhancing not only your ability to hear but also positively impacting your emotional health, cognitive function, and general lifespan.
If you’re detecting changes in your hearing or struggling to hear conversations, don’t wait. Taking the time to get a hearing assessment can have a significant and long-lasting effect on your overall health and quality of life.
Contact us today to schedule a hearing test and get on the road to better health.