As we age, we all recognize that hearing loss and specific mental health concerns can progress in spite of a healthy, active lifestyle. And scientists have found a strong link between the two that shouldn’t be overlooked and it will help if you don’t switch that hearing aid off.
Depression is two times as likely in people who are dealing with untreated hearing loss. About 27% more individuals with untreated hearing loss reported “frequently feeling sad” compared to those who used a hearing aid.
They were also 24% more likely to stop doing things they used to love and 39% more likely to feel like people are angry with them for no reason.
There’s an even more troubling statistic you should be aware of, though you won’t really like it. Keep that hearing aid turned on!
This study turns our ideas about hearing loss on their heads
For centuries, age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a “harmless” condition. It was widely believed that compensation would come from all of the other senses. People would simply go on with their lives attempting to live safely, healthily, and happily. Hearing loss was not believed to have any health affects beyond the hearing impairment.
Now we know better. One of the impacts hearing loss can have on your general health is explored in this study.
This substantial and well-structured study forces us to reconsider hearing loss as a society.
How the study was carried out
Over 2000 people 50 or older were surveyed in this study conducted by committed researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA). People with untreated hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. Clinically pertinent questions were asked to establish the levels of the following:
- Paranoia
- Depression
- Isolation
- Anxiety
Over 2000 family members of the participants were also involved in this ground-breaking study. What they documented helped to give the participant’s statements validity. With this added verification, this study becomes even more relevant when we discuss the effects of hearing loss.
How health and quality of life are affected by depression
Eating disorders such as acute obesity or extreme weight loss are more likely in those who suffer from depression, according to the American Psychological Association. They are more likely to suffer from insomnia and loss of memory.
They have decreased reaction time, which can result in severe injuries whilst cooking, driving, cleaning, and other activities. Healing is slower in people who suffer from depression and that can lead to longer hospital stays.
The danger of falling for older people is also elevated when a person suffers from depression.
Depression worsens as hearing loss progresses. The person becomes less able to care for themselves as loneliness and isolation set in.
But there’s an even sadder statistic.
Usage rates of hearing aids
About 75% of people who should use hearing aids don’t wear them. Yup! Many individuals have the ability to shield themselves from depression by wearing hearing aids but for some reason abstain from taking the steps.
Why do so many individuals avoid using a hearing aid?
Many people who don’t use a hearing aid actually do own one. They think it makes them look old so they simply avoid using it. It makes them embarrassed.
A hearing aid update would be worthwhile for these people. Present day hearing aids can sync to your smart devices, work better, and are more discreet. This makes them feel less like a hearing aid and more like an extension of their smart tech.
A smaller but significant number of individuals say hearing aids are too expensive. States and insurance companies are now recognizing the link between neglected hearing loss and overall health. Hearing aids are, because of this, becoming more available and cost-effective. And untreated hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which most individuals don’t take into account. They don’t understand how hearing loss impacts their overall life. In only a few years, your overall health cost can go up by as much as 40% because of neglected hearing loss.
How can hearing related depression symptoms be decreased?
Be proud to wear your hearing aid. Show people how much better you can feel when you can hear, wear your hearing aids proudly, and help get rid of the stigma.
Take some time to master the advanced features of your modern hearing aid to maximize your hearing experience in every situation. You’re not getting the most out of your hearing aid by simply cranking up the volume. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid for a while, contact us for a demo.
If you feel like you aren’t getting the most out of your hearing aid and are tempted to not use it, talk to us today about how to use your hearing aid more successfully.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss
