As we age, we all know that hearing loss and particular mental health concerns can progress despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And scientists have found a strong link between the two that shouldn’t be overlooked and it will help if you don’t turn that hearing aid off.

Depression is two times as likely in people who have untreated hearing loss. Nearly 27% more people with neglected hearing loss reported “frequently feeling sad” compared to those who used a hearing aid.

They were also 24% more likely to stop doing things they used to love and 39% more likely to feel like people are mad at them for no reason.

Let’s explore this interesting study and an even more troubling statistic you won’t want to hear but should know about. Don’t turn that hearing aid off!

This study turns our thoughts about hearing loss on their heads

Age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a harmless condition for centuries. It was believed that the other senses would merely compensate. People would simply go on with their lives trying to live safely, healthily, and happily. Beyond hearing impairment, it was believed that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.

Of course we now know that’s not the case. One of the effects hearing loss can have on your overall health is investigated in this study.

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

How the study was carried out

Committed researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA) carried out this research and surveyed over 2000 people 50 and older. Individuals with untreated hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. They asked clinically-relevant questions to identify the levels of:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Paranoia
• Isolation

Over 2000 family members of the participants were also involved in this ground-breaking study. They did this to help corroborate what the participants were self-reporting. With this additional verification, this research becomes even more significant when we talk about the effects of hearing loss.

How health and quality of life are affected by depression

According to the American Psychological Association, those suffering from depression are more likely to develop eating disorders that can lead to acute obesity or extreme weight loss. Memory loss and insomnia are also more predominant in those with untreated hearing loss.

They have diminished reaction time, which can lead to significant injuries whilst cooking, driving, cleaning, and other activities. Healing is slower in people who cope with depression and that can result in longer hospital stays.

Depression can increase fall risk in older adults.

Depression worsens as hearing loss advances. The person becomes less capable of caring for themselves as loneliness and solitude set in.

But there’s an even sadder statistic.

Hearing aid usage rates

Only around 25% of individuals who would benefit from hearing aids actually wear them. Yup! Many people have the means to shield themselves from depression by using hearing aids but for some reason avoid taking the steps.

Why do so many people neglect using a hearing aid?

When asked why they don’t use a hearing aid, many individuals say they own one. They think it makes them look old so they just avoid wearing it. It makes them embarrassed.

A hearing aid upgrade 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 seem more like an extension of your smart technology and less like a hearing aid.

Price is also a problem for a smaller but substantial number of people. States and insurance companies are now starting to recognize the connection between neglected hearing loss and overall health. Hearing aids are, due to this, becoming more accessible and cost-effective. In addition, individuals who object to the cost of hearing aids also don’t realize how much-neglected hearing loss can cost them over time. They don’t understand how hearing loss impacts their overall life. Neglected hearing loss can increase your total healthcare costs by as much as 4o percent in just a few years.

How can hearing related depression symptoms be minimized?

Be proud to wear your hearing aid. Show people how much healthier you can feel when you can hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help get rid of the stigma.

Maximize your hearing in every setting with your modern hearing aid by taking some time to master the advanced features. If you’re just turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most from your hearing aid. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid for a while, meet with us for a demo.

Consult us as soon as possible about the most effective way to utilize your hearing aid, especially if you feel like you’re not getting the most out of it and are tempted to leave it at home.

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