Hearing loss is more than just an inconvenience—it has far-reaching effects on our health and well-being. Recent research from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that untreated hearing loss is linked to several serious health issues:
- Dementia Risk: A study tracking 639 adults for nearly 12 years found that mild hearing loss doubled the risk of dementia. Moderate loss tripled the risk, and severe hearing impairment increased the risk fivefold. Brain scans show that hearing loss may contribute to a faster rate of brain atrophy and social isolation due to hearing difficulties may also play a role in dementia development.
- Walking Problems and Falls: As you walk, your ears pick up subtle cues that help with balance. Hearing loss mutes these important signals, making it harder to walk safely. Additionally, hearing loss makes your brain work harder to process sound, which can interfere with mental processing needed for safe walking.
- Communication Difficulties: Untreated hearing loss affects effective communication. Following conversations becomes challenging, especially in noisy environments. This can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and strained relationships.
- Social Isolation: Struggling to hear and understand others can cause individuals to withdraw from social activities. Over time, they may avoid gatherings, parties, or family get-togethers, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
- Depression and Anxiety: The emotional toll of feeling cut off from social interactions and facing daily challenges can contribute to depression and anxiety. Adults with hearing loss are almost twice as likely to suffer from depression compared to those without hearing impairment.
- Reduced Job Performance and Income: Hearing loss can affect job performance, leading to up to $30,000 a year in lost income.
Can Hearing Aids Help?
Johns Hopkins expert Dr. Frank Lin is studying whether hearing aids can reduce these risks. While nearly 27 million Americans age 50 and older have hearing loss, only one in seven uses a hearing aid. Seeking help early is crucial to maintaining quality of life and preventing further health complications.
Remember, wearing hearing aids doesn’t mean you’re old—it means you’re proactive about your well-being. If you suspect hearing loss, schedule a hearing visit with one of our Doctors at Audiology Center of Maine. Don’t let myths hold you back from seeking help. Your health and connections with loved ones are worth it!
Hearing Aid Myths That Hold You Back
“My hearing’s not that bad.”
Hearing aid users wait, on average, 10 years before getting help for hearing loss. But during that time, communication with loved ones becomes more difficult, and isolation and health risks increase. Findings from the Johns Hopkin’s study emphasize just how important it is to be proactive in addressing any hearing declines over time.
“Wearing hearing aids means I’m old, and I’m not ready for that.”
It’s normal to feel worried that hearing loss means you’re aging—and to want to hide it. Plenty of people with a hearing impairment sit silently rather than joining in conversations and activities, because they fear that hearing problems will make them seem helpless or less than competent. The truth: Connecting with others can help your brain stay younger and keep you involved with life.
“I don’t like the way hearing aids look.”
Forget the old days of big, whistling earpieces. Today’s hearing aids and cochlear implants are smaller (and less conspicuous) than ever before. Even celebrities (like former president Bill Clinton and football Hall of Famer Mike Singletary) are wearing them proudly.
“I heard that hearing aids are difficult to use.”
There is a breaking-in period as you—and your central auditory system and brain—adjust to life with hearing aids. That’s why most doctors and hearing centers include a trial period, so you can be sure the type you’ve chosen—whether it’s a miniature behind-the-ear model or one that fits into your ear—is right for you.