For anybody experiencing hearing loss, the message is straightforward: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study revealed that people were not as likely to develop health issues like anxiety, dementia, depression, and dangerous falls if they started wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss. While these health problems aren’t proven to be eliminated by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been connected to their use. 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 have a serious fall.
Stop The Excuses
It’s worthwhile to consider that when it comes to your health, these numbers might appear low but they’re still significant. Prior research has shown a correlation between hearing loss and other significant health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining problem. It’s essential to remember that many people diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother getting hearing aids. Why not? For many, the absence of insurance coverage is an issue. Even among people with insurance, the cost might seem too high.
Some people actually go in and get fitted but when they get their hearing aid home, it seems like too much hassle to use them, so they don’t. Many people don’t view hearing loss as a major concern because they can turn up the TV volume to solve the problem.
While it may seem as if hearing loss is inescapable as you age, there’s more to it than that, and turning up the volume is not the right answer.
The Value of Healthy Hearing
Clearly, a major element of communication is the ability to hear. Without the ability to communicate properly, you may not understand questions posed by your doctors or family. Consequently, communicating your concerns and symptoms will be a challenge.
There are also some less apparent issues associated with inadequate communication. If attempting to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling frustrated and embarrassed, you may start to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And clearly, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulus which occurs when you can’t hear.
Hearing Aid Advantages
Severe long-term concerns aren’t all that wearing hearing aids is about. Wearing a hearing aid will instantly enhance your quality of life, in addition to your long-term wellbeing. You will have a more satisfying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and participate in conversations. When you can communicate intelligibly with your doctor, you can accurately share the health concerns you are experiencing and comprehend your doctor’s treatment plan to decrease your anxiety further.
Should I get hearing aids? If you have any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Asking people to repeat what they said constantly
- Turning the volume of the TV way up
- Being so intimidated that you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social situations
- Trouble hearing the person you are talking to if there is background sound
These and possibly other symptoms may be an indication that it’s time to consider getting a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid may be the right option for you.