Woman concerned about her health working out to the television.

There’s a very basic message for anybody 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 began wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing loss. While these health problems aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health problems have been connected to their use. The study shows that seniors who use hearing aids had a 13% less likely chance of having a hazardous fall. They also had an 18% less likely chance of developing dementia and an 11% less likelihood of developing anxiety and depression.

Avoid Making Excuses

If these figures seem low to you, it’s important to recall that your health is at stake, and every little bit counts. Prior research has revealed a correlation between hearing loss and other significant health problems, but this study proved it’s an ongoing, worsening problem. But many individuals who have hearing impairment don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? For many, the lack of insurance coverage is a problem. And the cost might still be too high even with insurance.

Others go through the motions, getting fitted for hearing aids and taking them home only to leave them in the case because using them feels like too much of a hassle. Most people just turn up the volume to solve the problem and don’t think about hearing loss as much of a problem.

Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the problem, though, and while hearing loss may seem to be an inevitable part of getting older, there is a lot more to it.

Healthy Hearing is Important

Obviously, a major aspect of communication is the ability to hear. If your inability to communicate causes you to miss an essential instruction by your physician or direction by a family member, that’s a problem. As a result, you may not be able to convey your concerns and symptoms.

Other concerns related to a lack of effective communication are less apparent. When you strain to hear and keep up with a conversation on the phone, you might lose touch with some of the people in your support system out of embarrassment and frustration. And obviously, your likelihood of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t get enough stimulation which occurs when you are unable to hear.

Hearing Aid Advantages

Severe long-term challenges are not all that getting hearing aids is about. Wearing a hearing aid will instantly improve your quality of life, as well as your long-term outlook. You will have a more fulfilling social life and feel less isolated if you can hear and participate in conversations. You will reduce your anxiety even further when you are capable of precisely communicating your health concerns with your doctor and understanding his guidance for treatment.

Is it time to look into a hearing aid? The answer is yes if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  • Frequently wanting people to repeat what they said
  • Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you avoid social interaction
  • Watching TV at extreme volume
  • Difficulty hearing the person you are speaking to if there is background sound

These are only some of the symptoms that could indicate you need to consider a hearing aid. Schedule a consultation with us to find out if a hearing aid is the correct option for you, particularly if any of these symptoms sound familiar.

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The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
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