Hearing health is an essential part of our overall well-being, and taking timely action can lead to a richer, more connected life. By understanding the importance of hearing health and sharing this knowledge with your loved ones, you can help those around you enjoy the full benefits of better hearing.
The Positive Impact of Hearing Health on Mental Well-Being and Quality of Life
Managing hearing loss isn’t just about hearing better—it’s about living better. Research shows that timely action to address hearing loss can significantly reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, especially in older adults. A study by Tan et al. (2024) found that managing hearing loss can lead to improved mental health, allowing individuals to stay engaged and connected with the world around them.
Whether it’s enjoying the laughter of grandchildren, participating in social events, or simply feeling more confident, hearing aids make a real difference when worn routinely. These benefits, achieved with the use of hearing aids, are measured as “quality of life” improvements, reducing the psychological, social, and emotional effects of hearing loss (Chisolm, 2007).
Reducing Effort, Increasing Joy
Living with untreated hearing loss can be exhausting. The effort required to listen and understand conversations can lead to fatigue, stress, and even social withdrawal. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Managing hearing loss can ease the burden, allowing your loved ones to enjoy interactions without the constant struggle. Research by Roebuck, Guo, and Bourke (2018) highlights how reducing listening effort can improve memory, attention, and overall cognitive function, making everyday life more enjoyable.
Diabetes and Hearing: A Vital Connection
For those living with diabetes, hearing health is especially important. Studies show that individuals with diabetes are more than twice as likely to experience hearing loss compared to those without the condition (Horikawa et al., 2013). Taking timely action to manage hearing loss in diabetic patients can prevent further complications, ensuring that they continue to lead active, vibrant lives.
Preventing Falls and Staying Active
Even mild hearing loss can increase the risk of falls yet managing hearing challenges can help keep your loved ones remain safe and active. Research by Lin and Ferrucci (2012) demonstrates that hearing loss can triple the risk of accidental falls, while consistent hearing aid use can reduce the prevalence of falls (Campos et al., 2023), helping older adults maintain their independence and enjoy life to the fullest.
Now that you’re aware of what the future can hold when hearing health is prioritized—and what is at stake when hearing loss remains untreated —how do you start the conversation about hearing health with people in your life?
Starting a Positive Conversation About Hearing Health
Talking about hearing health can be a positive, empowering experience. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation:
- Choose a Comfortable Moment: Find a time when you and your loved one can relax and talk openly.
- Express Genuine Care: Approach the conversation with kindness, focusing on your concern for their well-being.
- Highlight the Joys of Better Hearing: Emphasize the positive changes they can experience, from clearer communication to increased safety.
- Share Your Success Stories: If you’ve experienced the benefits of managing hearing loss, share how it has improved your life.
- Offer Your Support: Suggest attending a hearing consultation together, making the journey to better hearing a shared experience.
Embrace the Benefits of Better Hearing
Taking care of hearing health is a gift that keeps on giving. Whether you’re helping yourself or a loved one, managing hearing loss can lead to a brighter, more fulfilling life. For more information and to view our presentation on the importance of these conversations, click on the video below.
Links from the video:
- Midwest Hearing offers online hearing screening for those curious about their hearing. Click here to access a free hearing screening.
- Our expert audiologists are here to support you and your loved ones. Click here to learn more about Midwest Hearing’s comprehensive care.
- Keep in touch to receive ongoing resources; click here to join our newsletter.
References:
- Tan, Y., Fang, L., Zhu, Y., & Hashimoto, K. (2024). Relationship between hearing loss and depression: A cross-sectional analysis from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2018. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 178, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.07.038
- Chisolm, T. H. (2007). Linking hearing aids to quality of life: Whatʼs the evidence? The Hearing Journal, 60(9), 10–16. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.HJ.0000295753.93516.16
- Roebuck, H., Guo, K., & Bourke, P. (2018). Hearing without listening: Attending to a quiet audiobook. Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology (2006), 71(8), 1663–1671. https://doi.org/10.1080/17470218.2017.1345959
- Horikawa, C., Kodama, S., Tanaka, S., Fujihara, K., Hirasawa, R., Yachi, Y., Shimano, H., Yamada, N., Saito, K., & Sone, H. (2013). Diabetes and Risk of Hearing Impairment in Adults: A Meta-Analysis. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 98(1), 51–58. https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2012-2119
- Lin, F. R., & Ferrucci, L. (2012). Hearing Loss and Falls Among Older Adults in the United States. Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(4), 369–371. https://doi.org/10.1001/archinternmed.2011.728
- Campos, L., Prochazka, A., Anderson, M., Kaizer, A., Foster, C., & Hullar, T. (2023). Consistent hearing aid use is associated with lower fall prevalence and risk in older adults with hearing loss. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 71(10), 3163-3171. https://doi.org/10.1111/jgs.18461