As we age, we all recognize that hearing loss and specific mental health challenges can worsen despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And scientists have discovered a strong connection between the two that shouldn’t be ignored and it will help if you don’t switch that hearing aid off.

Depression is twice as likely in people who have untreated hearing loss. Nearly 27% more people with neglected hearing loss reported “often feeling sad” compared to those who used a hearing aid.

They were also 24% more likely to quit doing things they used to love and 39% more likely to feel as if people are angry with them for no reason.

Let’s explore this interesting study and an even sadder statistic you won’t want to hear but should be aware of. Don’t turn that hearing aid off!

Our ideas about hearing loss will be completely changed by this study

For centuries, age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a “harmless” affliction. It was thought that the other senses would merely compensate. People would just go on with their lives attempting to live safely, healthily, and happily. Apart from hearing impairment, it was believed that loss of hearing had no other negative health effects.

Of course we now know that isn’t the case. This study establishes just one of the larger effects that hearing loss has on a person’s general health.

As a society, we will need to reconsider hearing loss based on this well-structured and significant study.

How was this research done?

Dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA) carried out this research and surveyed more than 2000 people 50 and older. People with untreated hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. They asked clinically-relevant questions to identify the levels of:

• Isolation
• Paranoia
• Anxiety
• Depression

More than 2000 family members of the participants were also involved in this ground-breaking study. They did this to help validate what the participants were self-reporting. When we discuss hearing loss, this study, with the extra verification, becomes even more relevant.

How depression affects health and quality of life

According to the American Psychological Association, those who struggle with depression are more likely to develop eating disorders that can cause severe obesity or extreme loss of weight. They are more likely to suffer from insomnia and memory loss.

They have diminished reaction time, which can lead to severe injuries when cooking, driving, cleaning, and other activities. Those with depression have even been found to heal more slowly, causing complications and lengthy hospital stays.

Depression can increase fall risk in older adults.

Depression worsens as hearing loss advances. The individual usually becomes more and more isolated, lonely, and unable to care for him or herself.

Now, let’s look at a really sad statistic.

Usage rates of hearing aids

Only about 25% of individuals who need hearing aids actually wear them. That’s right. For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its adverse impacts are entirely unnecessary and preventable, yet they are not taking steps to prevent it.

Why so many decide not to use a hearing aid

When asked why they don’t wear a hearing aid, many individuals say they own one. They simply don’t wear it because it makes them “look old.” They’re embarrassed.

A hearing aid update would be advantageous for these individuals. Today’s hearing aids can sync to your smart devices, work better, and are more subtle. This makes them seem less like a hearing aid and more like an extension of their smart tech.

A smaller but significant number of people say hearing aids are too expensive. The connection between disregarded hearing loss and total health hazards is now beginning to be recognized by states and insurance companies. Hearing aids are, due to this, becoming more available and affordable. Additionally, individuals who object to the price of hearing aids also don’t recognize how much-untreated hearing loss can cost them over time. They’re not aware of how hearing loss will affect their health and quality of life. In just a few years, your total health cost can climb by as much as 40% because of neglected hearing loss.

What can be done to minimize hearing-associated depression symptoms?

Be proud to wear your hearing aid. Show people how much healthier you can feel when you can hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help get rid of the stigma.

Take a little time to learn the advanced features of your modern hearing aid to maximize your hearing experience in every situation. If you’re just turning the volume up and down, you’re not getting the most from your hearing aid. Consult us so you can demo these upgraded hearing aids.

If you feel like you’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to leave it off, speak with us today about how to use your hearing aid more successfully.

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment

References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss