There’s a very basic message for anyone struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study found that people were not as likely to develop health problems like anxiety, dementia, depression, 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 stop these health problems, 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 have a dangerous fall.
Stop The Excuses
If these figures seem low to you, it’s important to remember that your health is at risk, and every little bit counts. Previous studies have shown a connection between hearing loss and other serious health issues, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, declining issue. It’s significant to remember that many people diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother getting hearing aids. Why not? Not having the proper insurance to cover some of the expenses is a common issue. Even among those who have insurance, the cost might be too high.
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 seems like too much of an inconvenience. Most people simply turn up the volume to solve the dilemma and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
Higher volume on the TV won’t solve the problem, though, and while hearing loss may seem to be an unavoidable part of growing older, there is far more to it.
Healthy Hearing is Important
Hearing is clearly a huge part of communication. Without the ability to communicate properly, you may not comprehend questions asked by your physicians or family. As a result, you might not be able to convey your symptoms and concerns.
Other concerns linked to a lack of reliable communication are less apparent. If attempting to have a conversation on the phone leaves you feeling frustrated and embarrassed, you might start to lose touch with individuals in your support system. Not being able to hear might even result in less brain stimulus, and we all recognize that exercising your mind can help fight against dementia.
Hearing Aid Benefits
Severe long-term concerns are not all that getting hearing aids is about. Wearing a hearing aid will immediately enhance your quality of life, in addition to your long-term wellbeing. If you can hear and engage in conversations, it minimizes your chances of feeling isolated and lets you participate more completely in your social life. You will decrease your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health concerns with your physician and comprehending his guidance for treatment.
Do I need hearing aids? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Asking people to repeat themselves frequently
- Watching TV at very high volume
- Trouble hearing the person you’re speaking to if there is background sound
- Keeping away from social situations because you’re afraid you can’t follow conversations
These and possibly other symptoms may be an indication that it’s time to consider getting a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the best option for you, particularly if any of these symptoms sound familiar.
