There are multiple studies that link untreated hearing loss to a myriad of negative mental and physical conditions, like dementia, bodily frailty, depression, and social isolation.
Social isolation is a huge factor in why people with hearing loss challenges seek out treatment—missing words and feeling left out of the conversation can make one feel lonely, even in the most crowded room.
I read a study recently that links social isolation and loneliness to hearing loss; not being able to hear affects far more than just your ears, as it can change your communication abilities, as well. There are some startling statistics that show how hearing loss alters your holistic health in negative ways.
If you believe that you or a loved one might be suffering at the hands of an untreated hearing loss, please know that you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place in beginning your hearing health journey here.
Hearing Loss and Social Isolation
This study, by Barbra H. B. Timmer from the University of Queensland, aimed to examine how holistic hearing care can help improve hearing health as well as communication skills and social-emotional well-being in patients—something I’m very passionate about, myself.
Individuals with untreated hearing loss often avoid social situations out of fear of missing the conversation; constantly asking people to repeat themselves brings with it a sense of embarrassment, and the interaction no longer feels rewarding, so those with hearing loss have a higher chance of socially disconnecting.
It’s not news that hearing loss has been linked to social isolation, but few people realize how much it affects them until they seek out personalized hearing treatment.
A quote from the introduction of the study really caught my eye, and summarized quite succinctly the point I’m driving home:
“For adults with hearing loss, hearing care professionals play a vital role in fostering their clients’ social-emotional well-being by supporting their hearing function through various audiological rehabilitation options and approaches.”
How Can Hearing Treatment Help Me?
Even just getting your hearing checked can make a world of difference if you’ve noticed some struggles hearing in social situations. Taking charge of your hearing health isn’t embarrassing—rather, it’s a step in the right direction when caring for your entire body’s health.
Hearing loss is a sign that you’re living a full, busy life, with lots of loud and fun noises, so it makes sense that your ears have taken some wear and tear. You’re not alone: hearing loss affects almost 61 million Americans.
Personalized hearing treatment from an audiologist or hearing care professional can help you take the initiative in caring for your hearing health, so you can rejoin the conversation with your friends and loved ones without fear of missing out.
Untreated hearing loss will only worsen with time. If you or a loved one is having hearing loss challenges, please call us at (718) 255-1113 to schedule an appointment. You can also request a callback and a member of our team will get in contact to answer any questions you may have.
