Most people avoid going to the doctor for a hearing test because they’re afraid of what the results might say. However, avoiding a hearing test could actually make the problem much worse. Hearing loss is a progressive condition, which means that it becomes more significant over time. Additionally, there is no cure for hearing loss, and any deterioration in your hearing ability becomes permanent. So, if you wait until your hearing loss is already advanced, you may have difficulty communicating with loved ones, participating in activities you enjoy, and even working a normal shift.
Hearing loss impacts your relationships
For many people, hearing loss is an invisible disability. Unless you are told about someone’s hearing loss, you may not even realize that they have difficulty hearing. However, despite being invisible, hearing loss can have a significant impact on a person’s life, especially in their relationships. Hearing loss can make it difficult to follow conversations, which can lead to frustration and conflict. In addition, hearing loss can be isolating, as it becomes difficult for people to participate effectively in social activities. As a result, hearing loss can put a strain on even the strongest of relationships.
Cognitive deterioration
There is a growing body of evidence linking hearing loss to cognitive decline. One study found that older adults with hearing loss were more likely to experience declines in memory and logical ability over a six-year period than those with normal hearing. The study also found that the more severe the hearing loss, the greater the decline in cognitive function. Another study discovered that people with hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia than those without hearing impairment. The link between hearing loss and cognitive decline is thought to be due to the fact that hearing loss often facilitates social isolation, which can result in mental and physical decline. In addition, hearing loss can make it difficult to process information, which can precipitate changes in brain structure and function.
Dementia and impaired hearing
According to a recent study, hearing loss may be a risk factor for dementia. The study, which was conducted by researchers at John Hopkins University, looked at a group of older adults with an average age of 76. The participants were divided into two groups: those with hearing loss and those without. The researchers found that the group with hearing loss was more likely to have problems with memory and thinking skills than the group without hearing loss. They also found that the participants with hearing loss were more likely to have amyloid plaques, which are a marker of Alzheimer’s disease. While the study does not prove that hearing loss causes dementia, it does suggest that there may be a link between the two conditions. Given the growing body of evidence linking hearing loss and cognitive decline, it is important for older adults to get their hearing checked on a regular basis.
Increased risk of falls
One of the most common consequences of aging is a deterioration of the senses. As we get older, our eyesight and hearing begin to decline, and these changes can have a significant impact on our ability to stay safe and independent. One study found that seniors with hearing loss are three times more likely to fall than those with normal hearing. These findings suggest that sensory impairment can contribute to a greater risk of falls among the elderly. There are several reasons why this may be the case. First, hearing loss can make it difficult to navigate around obstacles or accurately judge distances as people are unable to hear footsteps and other critical warning sounds. Second, seniors with impaired hearing may be less likely to participate in regular physical activity, which can lead to muscle weakness and reduced coordination. Finally, many medications used by seniors can cause dizziness or drowsiness, further increasing the risk of falling. Given the links between hearing loss and falls, it is important for seniors to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect themselves.
Do not delay your hearing evaluation
Don’t wait to have your hearing evaluated if you think there may be a problem. The earlier you catch any potential hearing issues, the better off you’ll be. You don’t want to wait until it’s too late and damage has already been done. Contact us today to schedule a hearing evaluation with one of our highly trained professionals.