As we age, we all recognize that hearing loss and certain mental health challenges can progress despite a healthy, active lifestyle. And scientists have discovered a strong link between the two that shouldn’t be ignored and it will help if you don’t switch that hearing aid off.
Depression is two times as likely in individuals who have neglected hearing loss. Close to 27% more people with untreated hearing loss reported “frequently feeling sad” compared to people who used a hearing aid.
They were also 39% more likely to feel that those around them get annoyed for “no reason” and 24% more likely to avoid social experiences they once loved.
Let’s look at this interesting study and an even sadder statistic you won’t want to hear but should know about. Keep that hearing aid turned on!
Our ideas about hearing loss will be completely transformed by this study
Age-related hearing loss has been regarded as a harmless affliction for centuries. 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 impact beyond the hearing impairment.
Of course we now know that’s not the situation. This study establishes just one of the greater effects that hearing loss has on a person’s general health.
This important and well-structured study forces us to rethink hearing loss as a society.
How the study was conducted
Dedicated researchers at the National Institute for Aging (NCOA) carried out this research and surveyed over 2000 individuals 50 and older. People with untreated hearing loss and people who used hearing aids were among the participants. They asked clinically-relevant questions to ascertain the levels of:
- Paranoia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Isolation
More than 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. When we discuss hearing loss, this research, with the extra verification, becomes even more relevant.
How health and quality of life are impacted by depression
Eating disorders such as acute obesity or significant 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 reduced reaction time, which can lead to significant injuries while cooking, cleaning, driving, and other activities. Healing is slower in individuals who suffer from depression and that can lead to longer hospital stays.
Depression can increase fall risk in older adults.
As the hearing loss advances, so does the depression. The person usually becomes more and more secluded, lonely, and unable to care for him or herself.
But there’s an even sadder statistic.
Hearing aid usage rates
Only around 25% of people who need hearing aids actually use them. Yup! For many, this increased rate of depression and all of its negative impacts are totally unnecessary and preventable, yet they’re not taking measures to stop it.
Why so many decide not to wear a hearing aid
Many people who don’t wear a hearing aid actually do own one. They just don’t wear it because it makes them “look old.” They’re embarrassed.
A hearing aid update would be beneficial for these individuals. Modern hearing aids work better, and they are also more unobtrusive and let people sync with devices. This makes them seem less like a hearing aid and more like an extension of their smart tech.
A smaller but considerable number of people say they can’t afford one. States and insurance companies are now starting to recognize the link between untreated hearing loss and total health. They are helping to make hearing aids more budget friendly and accessible. And untreated hearing loss can cost a lot of money over time which the majority of people don’t take into account. They don’t understand how hearing loss effects their overall life. In only a few years, your total health cost can go up by as much as 40% because of neglected hearing loss.
What can be done to reduce hearing-related depression symptoms?
Be proud to wear your hearing aid. Help combat the stigma people feel about wearing a hearing aid by showing them how much healthier you feel when you can hear.
Take some time to master the advanced features of your modern hearing aid to optimize 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. If you haven’t upgraded your hearing aid in a while, contact us for a demo.
Consult us right away about the most effective way to use your hearing aid, particularly if you recognize that you’re not getting the most out of it and are tempted to put it in a drawer.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-older-adults-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss
