IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN HEARING LOSS AND OVERALL HEALTH?

THE SIMPLE ANSWERS IS, YES.

Our ability to hear is one of our primary senses and thus has consequences for our broader social, physical, and mental health. When we lose our hearing, our overall health can be compromised.

We often lose our hearing gradually over time, and it can be difficult to appreciate how much our hearing enriches so many aspects of our lives.

Deidré Breytenbach, principal audiologist at Noosa's only independent, locally owned and operated hearing clinic, Noosa Hearing, says, "The hearing loss journey usually takes about seven years before someone gets help."

"Hearing loss is often the last thing on a person's list of health challenges as it is not life-threatening and easy to ignore. But being proactive with your hearing health is the key," Deidré says.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH RISKS OF HEARING LOSS?

Communication is an important foundation for any good relationship.

When your hearing declines, that foundation can be compromised. This commonly results in misunderstandings, frustration, and feelings of being ignored. Most significantly, hearing loss can influence some people to avoid social situations. In turn, this may affect their mental well-being and create an unhealthy situation of loneliness and isolation.

According to Professor Frank Lin from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in the US, hearing loss has also been linked to cognitive decline.

A study in the US found that those with hearing loss experienced a 30-40 percent faster decline in cognitive function than those with normal hearing.

"Our results show that hearing loss should not be considered an inconsequential part of aging because it may come with some serious long-term consequences to healthy brain functioning," Prof Lin says.

He also found that hearing loss increased the risk of falls.

SO WHAT CAN WE DO RIGHT NOW?

It's quite simple. If you think you have a hearing loss or want to establish a baseline, it's important to book a comprehensive, diagnostic hearing test.

"Everyone over 55 should have their hearing tested," Deidré recommends. A hearing test is the first step to helping your hearing, communication, and relationships.

Treating clients from five to 105, Noosa Hearing is also an approved provider of fully subsidised services for eligible pensioners and DVA card holders.

Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.

"People are often surprised at the difference good hearing makes to their quality of life and relationships," Deidré says.

Noosa Hearing is conveniently located at 1 Lanyana Way in Noosa Junction. For a personal approach to optimal hearing health, call Deidré at Noosa Hearing at 5231 8867. For more information or to book online, visit noosahearing.com.au.

References:

Johns Hopkins Medicine. (21 January 2013). Hearing loss accelerates brain function decline in older adults. ScienceDaily. Retrieved October 8, 2022, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/ news/media/releases/hearing_loss_ accelerates_brain_function_decline_in_ older_adults