For anybody experiencing hearing impairment, the message is straightforward: Get a hearing aid.
Why? A recent study revealed that individuals who obtained hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment were less likely to experience depression, anxiety, dementia, and dangerous falls than people who did not receive hearing aids. While these health concerns aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been linked to their use. Results from the study revealed 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
If these figures seem low to you, it’s significant to recall that your health is at stake, and every little bit counts. Previous studies have shown a link between hearing loss and other significant health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, declining issue. It’s essential to note that many individuals 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. And the expense might 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 using them feels like too much of an inconvenience. Many people don’t view hearing loss as an important concern because they can turn up the TV volume to solve the problem.
While it might seem like hearing loss is inescapable as you get older, there’s more to it than that, and turning up the volume is not the correct answer.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Hearing is clearly a large element of communication. Without the ability to communicate precisely, you might not comprehend questions posed by your physicians or family. As a result, you may not be able to convey your symptoms and concerns.
Other problems linked to a lack of effective communication are less obvious. When you strain to hear and keep up with a conversation on the phone, you may lose touch with some of the people in your support system due to frustration or embarrassment. And clearly, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which occurs when you can’t hear.
The Advantages of Hearing Aids
Getting a hearing aid isn’t only about serious, long-term concerns. Wearing a hearing aid will instantly improve your quality of life, as well as your long-term wellbeing. You will have a more satisfying social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and participate in conversations. You will minimize your anxiety even further when you are capable of precisely communicating your health issues with your doctor and comprehending his advice for treatment.
Is it time to look into a hearing aid? The answer is yes if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Trouble hearing the person you’re speaking to if there is background sound
- Frequently needing people to repeat what they said
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you avoid social interaction
- Watching TV at very high volume
These are only a few of the symptoms that could indicate you should look into a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to determine if a hearing aid is the right option for you, especially if any of these symptoms sound familiar.
