As we get older, we all know that hearing loss and certain mental health challenges can progress despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And a strong link between the two has been observed by scientists which should never be overlooked. So keep that hearing aid turned on.
Depression is two times as likely in individuals who have untreated hearing loss. Close to 27% more people with untreated hearing loss reported “often feeling sad” in contrast to those who used a hearing aid.
They were also 24% more likely to quit doing things they once loved and 39% more likely to feel like people are mad at them for no reason.
There’s an even more troubling statistic you should be aware of, though you won’t really like it. Keep that hearing aid turned on!
This study turns our ideas about hearing loss on their heads
Age-related hearing loss has been considered a harmless condition for centuries. It was thought that the other senses would merely compensate. People would just go on with their lives trying to live safely, healthily, and happily. Beyond hearing impairment, it was thought that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.
Of course we now know that isn’t the situation. This study illustrates just one of the larger effects that hearing loss has on a person’s overall health.
This substantial and well-structured study forces us to reconsider hearing loss as a society.
How was this study done?
Dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA) conducted this study and surveyed over 2000 individuals 50 and older. Individuals with neglected hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. They asked clinically-relevant questions to identify the levels of:
- Depression
- Isolation
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
The study took a ground-breaking step by including more than 2000 family members of the study participants. What they documented helped to give the participant’s statements validity. When we discuss hearing loss, this research, with the extra verification, becomes even more pertinent.
How health and quality of life are affected by depression
Eating disorders like severe obesity or significant weight loss are more likely in people who suffer from depression, according to the American Psychological Association. 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 suffer from depression and that can lead to longer hospital stays.
Depression can increase the risk of falling in older adults.
Depression worsens as hearing loss progresses. The person often becomes less capable of caring for themselves as loneliness and isolation set in.
But there’s an even sadder statistic.
Usage rates of hearing aids
Around 75% of people who need hearing aids don’t use them. That’s right. For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its negative impacts are totally unnecessary and avoidable, yet they’re not taking measures to prevent it.
Why so many decide not to use a hearing aid
When asked why they don’t wear a hearing aid, many people say they do own one. They think it makes them look old so they simply neglect wearing it. They’re embarrassed.
These people would benefit from a hearing aid upgrade. Present day hearing aids can sync to your smart devices, work better, and are more discreet. This makes them seem less like a hearing aid and more like an extension of their smart tech.
Price is also an issue for a smaller yet substantial number of people. States and insurance companies are now starting to recognize the connection between untreated hearing loss and overall health. They are helping to make hearing aids more budget friendly and accessible. And untreated hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which most individuals don’t take into consideration. They don’t recognize how hearing loss impacts their overall life. In just a few years, your overall health cost can go up by as much as 40% because of neglected hearing loss.
How can hearing associated depression symptoms be decreased?
Have pride in wearing your hearing aid. Help combat the stigma people feel about wearing a hearing aid by showing them how much healthier you feel when you can hear.
Optimize your hearing in every situation 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 out of your hearing aid. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid in a while, meet with us for a demo.
If you feel you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to leave it off, talk to us today about how to use your hearing aid more effectively.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss
