The signs of hearing loss may be something you’re interested in learning about if you’re over 65. The most obvious is hearing loss, but other symptoms can affect your quality of life. For example, cognitive decline and depression are typical if you do not receive treatment for your hearing problems.
Untreated Hearing Loss Can Lead to Depression
A recent National Council on Aging study has found that untreated hearing loss is associated with the following: Depression, anxiety, social isolation, and decreased quality of life. Although this might not seem like a big deal, it is essential to remember that even a seemingly minor issue can significantly impact someone’s health.
Fortunately, there are methods to prevent or alleviate the effects of this condition with the help of Oticon’s hearing solutions. However, the best approach is to take preventative steps.
This can be done by having your hearing checked by a physician. The doctor will be able to do an initial evaluation and then refer you to an ENT specialist, which is the person who will be able to provide treatment.
Anxiety
Anxiety and hearing loss are both common problems for older adults. Both can negatively impact the quality of life of those who suffer from them. The relationship between the two is still understudied, but the correlation appears real.
For instance, studies have shown that hearing impairment is associated with more frequent anxiety and depression. However, more research is needed to determine these associations’ magnitude and assess their impact on the quality of life of those who have them.
One of the more interesting relationships between the two is the degree to which the brain’s ability to process sound is affected by hearing impairment. For example, patients with ARHL who use a cochlear amplifier have reduced precentral and postcentral gyri thickness.
Paranoia
In addition to hearing loss and vision problems, paranoia and hallucinations can be common problems for older adults. These may be the result of a variety of medical conditions. They can also be a symptom of dementia.
The symptoms of paranoia in older adults can be debilitating. If your elderly loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to get help. This is especially true if paranoia interferes with daily life.
You should discuss your concerns with your loved one’s doctor. They may recommend testing to find out if there is an underlying medical condition.
Older adults can experience paranoia, including persecutory delusions and false beliefs. For example, an older person may believe that someone is stalking them.
Cognitive Decline
Hearing loss and cognitive decline are two common problems for older adults. There is some evidence that untreated hearing loss leads to a decline in memory and attention, but the causes of these changes are not fully understood. Some studies have linked the decline of these functions with the deprivation of sensory stimulation. Other studies link the reduction of auditory acuity to accelerated brain atrophy.
Several MRI studies suggest that hearing impairment may reduce the integrity of the brain. Novel research suggests that untreated hearing loss may increase the risk of dementia.
Many people with hearing loss become isolated. This isolation may lead to other health complications. In addition to cognitive decline, people with untreated hearing loss have a higher risk of depression.
Signs of Age-Related Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss is a condition that can affect older adults. It can cause various problems, such as difficulty hearing others, communication difficulties, and social isolation. The condition can also be associated with depression.
One of the first signs of age-related hearing loss is a loss of high-pitched sounds. Usually, this loss is gradual, and the sound becomes harder to hear over time.
If the loss is severe, a person may need a hearing aid. Another option is to have a cochlear implant. This is a small electronic device that is surgically implanted into the ear. These implants can make sounds louder. However, they do not restore normal hearing.
Other symptoms of age-related hearing loss are tinnitus, a buzzing, hissing or roaring noise that can occur in either ear. Tinnitus can be caused by various health conditions, such as earwax blocking the ear or an infection.
Prevention
Hearing loss is a widespread problem among older adults. It can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Several strategies can be used to prevent it.
Avoiding loud noises is among the best strategies for protecting your hearing. Loud noise can cause damage to your ears and can lead to permanent loss of hearing. You can prevent this by taking breaks from the noise and turning down the volume of your music.
Another way to protect your ears is to wear hearing protection. Hearing protection can come in the form of earplugs or hearing aids. A hearing aid has adjustable volume settings that can help to compensate for your loss of hearing.
In addition, certain medicines can help to treat your hearing issues. You should consult your doctor to determine if these treatments are right for you.
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