As we get older, we all recognize that hearing loss and specific mental health challenges can get worse in spite of a healthy, active lifestyle. And a strong link between the two has been discovered by scientists which should never be dismissed. So keep that hearing aid turned on.
Depression is twice as likely in individuals who have neglected hearing loss. About 27% more people with neglected hearing loss reported “often feeling sad” in contrast to people who used a hearing aid.
They were also 39% more likely to feel that the people around them get upset for “no reason” and 24% more likely to avoid social experiences they once loved.
There’s an even more troubling statistic you should know about, though you won’t like it very much. Don’t turn off that hearing aid!
Our beliefs about hearing loss will be totally changed by this study
Age-related hearing loss has been considered a harmless affliction for centuries. It was widely believed that compensation would come from all of the other senses. The person would simply get by and go on to live the rest of their life healthily, safely, and happily. Apart from hearing impairment, it was thought that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.
Now we know better. This study illustrates just one of the larger effects that hearing loss has on a person’s general health.
As a society, we will need to rethink hearing loss based on this well-structured and compelling study.
How was this study done?
Over 2000 people 50 or older were surveyed in this research carried out by dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). The participants included a combination of hearing aid wearers and those with untreated hearing loss. Clinically pertinent questions were asked to establish the levels of the following:
- Isolation
- Paranoia
- Depression
- Anxiety
Over 2000 family members of the participants were also included in this ground-breaking study. They did this to help validate what the participants were reporting. With this additional verification, this study becomes even more relevant when we discuss the effects of hearing loss.
How health and quality of life are affected by depression
According to the American Psychological Association, those who struggle with depression are more likely to develop eating disorders that can result in severe obesity or extreme weight loss. Memory loss and insomnia are also more common in those with untreated hearing loss.
They have decreased reaction time, which can result in severe injuries when cooking, driving, cleaning, and other activities. Healing is slower in individuals who suffer from depression and that can result in longer hospital stays.
Depression can increase the risk of falling in older adults.
Depression worsens as hearing loss advances. The individual becomes less able to care for themselves as loneliness and isolation set in.
But there’s an even sadder statistic.
Usage rates of hearing aids
About 75% of individuals who should use hearing aids don’t wear them. That’s right. For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its negative impacts are totally unnecessary and preventable, yet they are not taking measures to prevent it.
Why so many decide not to wear 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 using it. They’re embarrassed.
A hearing aid update would be beneficial for these people. Contemporary hearing aids work better, and they are also more unobtrusive 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 an issue for a smaller but substantial number of people. States and insurance companies are now starting to recognize the connection between untreated hearing loss and total health. They are helping to make hearing aids more affordable and accessible. In addition, individuals who object to the cost of hearing aids also don’t understand how much-neglected hearing loss can cost them over time. They’re unaware of how hearing loss will impact their health and quality of life. In only a few years, your total health cost can go up by as much as 40% because of unaddressed hearing loss.
How can hearing associated depression symptoms be reduced?
Wear your hearing aid with pride. Help fight the stigma people feel about using a hearing aid by showing them how much better you feel when you can hear.
Maximize your hearing in every situation with your modern hearing aid by taking a little time to learn the advanced features. If you’re only turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most from your hearing aid. Consult us so you can try out these upgraded hearing aids.
If you feel like you aren’t getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to not use it, talk to us today about how to make use of your hearing aid more effectively.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss