Treating Your Hearing Loss is a Foundation for Overall Health
Summary: The impact of hearing loss can reach far beyond your ears. We’re highlighting 5 key reasons why treating hearing loss lays the groundwork for good overall health.
1. Improved communication and relationships
When you have untreated hearing loss, it can be difficult to communicate effectively with others, leading to misunderstandings and strained relationships. By addressing your hearing loss, you can improve your ability to communicate with others and strengthen your relationships.
2. Reduced risk of cognitive decline
Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Treating your hearing loss and wearing hearing aids can significantly reduce your risk and help maintain your cognitive function.
3. Increased safety
Hearing loss can impact your balance, putting you at a 3x higher risk for an injury-causing fall. Wearing hearing aids can help you regain your balance and lower your risk of falling.
4. Better mental health
Untreated hearing loss can also have a negative impact on mental health, including an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Improve your overall mental health and well-being by addressing your hearing loss early.
5. Improved quality of life
Hearing loss can make it difficult to enjoy social activities, music, and other hobbies. Social isolation has been associated with a reduction in lifespan similar to that caused by smoking 15 cigarettes daily, according to a study of 20,000 people. Taking care of your hearing loss can help you improve your quality of life and ensure you continue to participate in the things that bring you joy.
In addition to improving your physical and mental health, treating your hearing loss can also help your pocketbook. Though the cost of hearing aids can cause sticker shock for many, the cost of untreated hearing loss is far more than the cost of hearing aids. A Johns Hopkins study concluded that older adults with untreated hearing loss incurred $22,434 in extra healthcare costs versus individuals with no hearing loss. The same study revealed that people with untreated hearing loss experienced approximately 50% more hospital stays and had a 44% higher risk of readmission within 30 days.
Don’t put off addressing any hearing changes you may be experiencing. Timely treatment doesn’t just improve your hearing — it benefits your health, wellness and overall quality of life.