There’s a very basic message for anybody struggling with hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study revealed that people were not as likely to develop health issues like anxiety, dementia, depression, and dangerous falls if they started wearing 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 associated 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 suffer a dangerous fall.
Stop The Excuses
If these numbers seem low to you, it’s important to recall that your health is at risk, and every little bit counts. Previous studies have demonstrated a link between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining issue. It’s important to note that many individuals diagnosed with hearing loss don’t bother getting hearing aids. Why not? Not having the correct insurance to cover some of the costs is a typical issue. And the cost may still be 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 using them feels like too much of a hassle. Many individuals don’t view hearing loss as an important issue because they can turn the volume of the TV up to solve the problem.
While it might seem as if hearing loss is unavoidable as you age, there’s more to it than that, and turning up the volume is not the best solution.
Healthy Hearing is Vital
Hearing is obviously a huge part of communication. If your inability to communicate causes you to miss a critical instruction by your physician or guidance by a family member, that’s an issue. Consequently, communicating your symptoms and concerns will be a challenge.
Other issues linked to a lack of effective communication are less apparent. If attempting to have phone conversations leaves you feeling embarrassed and frustrated, you might begin to lose touch with individuals in your support system. And obviously, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which occurs when you are unable to hear.
The Advantages of Hearing Aids
Getting a hearing aid isn’t only about extreme, long-term concerns. Wearing a hearing aid will instantly enhance your quality of life, in addition to your long-term wellbeing. If you can hear and take part in conversations, it minimizes your chances of feeling isolated and allows you to partake more fully in your social life. You will minimize your anxiety even further when you are able to precisely communicate your health issues with your doctor and understanding his advice for treatment.
Should I get hearing aids? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Asking people to repeat themselves constantly
- Background sound makes it tough to hear when somebody is speaking to you
- Avoiding social interaction for fear you can’t follow conversations
- Turning the volume of the TV up very high
These are only some of the symptoms that could reveal you need to consider a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the correct choice for you, especially if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.