There’s a very simple message for anybody struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study found that people were less likely to develop health problems such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls if they began wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment. While these health issues aren’t proven to be eliminated by hearing aids, fewer health problems have been connected to their use. Results from the study showed 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.
Refrain From Making Excuses
It’s important to consider that when it comes to your health, these figures may appear low but they’re still significant. Prior research has revealed a connection between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining issue. But many individuals who have hearing loss don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? Not having the appropriate insurance to cover some of the costs is a common issue. And the expense may still seem too high even for those who have insurance.
Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and taking them home only to let them sit in the case because wearing them seems like too much of a hassle. Most people just turn up the volume to solve the dilemma and don’t consider hearing loss as much of an issue.
While it may seem like hearing loss is unavoidable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and cranking the volume up is not the best solution.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Hearing is obviously a huge part of communication. Without the ability to communicate effectively, you might not comprehend questions asked by your doctors or family members. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be difficult.
Other concerns related to a lack of reliable communication are less obvious. If attempting to have phone conversations leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you may begin to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And obviously, your chance of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which occurs when you can’t hear.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Serious long-term concerns aren’t all that getting hearing aids is about. Your long term wellbeing will definitely improve but hearing aids will immediately improve your quality of life. If you can hear and take part in conversations, it lowers your chances of feeling isolated and lets you partake more completely in your social life. You will reduce your anxiety even further when you are capable of precisely communicating your health concerns with your physician and comprehending his guidance for treatment.
Do I need hearing aids? The answer is yes if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Asking people to repeat what they said constantly
- Watching TV at very high volume
- Background sound makes it tough to hear when someone is talking to you
- Being so intimidated that you won’t be able to follow conversations, you avoid social interaction
These are only a few of the symptoms that could signify you should consider a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid may be the right option for you.