Having to go to the ER can be personally and financially costly. What if you could lessen your risk of falls, accidents, depression, anxiety, and even dementia while also preventing visits to the ER.
Emerging studies make the case that, for individuals with severe hearing loss, wearing their hearing aid could be the difference between staying connected and healthy and ending up spending many nights in the emergency room.
The Research
Participants from 65 to 85 participated in a University of Michigan study. Each had significant hearing loss. But out of all of those who took part, only 45% of them used their hearing aids regularly.
Other studies have also revealed that hearing aids were worn regularly by only 30% of individuals who had them.
Of the 585 individuals in the group who did use their hearing aids, 12 fewer people found themselves in the ER or non-elective hospital stay.
This may not seem like a very large number. But statistically, this is significant.
And that’s not all. They also found that those who wore their hearing aids spend, on average, one fewer day in the hospital. They were more likely to keep regular appointments with their doctors, which probably decreased their time in ER.
How Can Hearing Aids Decrease The Need For ER Visits?
First for the obvious one. You wouldn’t be as likely to require emergency care if you are paying attention to your health.
Also, individuals who use their hearing aids remain more socially engaged. This can result in both a stronger motivation to keep that doctor’s appointment and better access to services and help to get to appointments.
For those bringing themselves, it means that they can drive more safely with less anxiety about what they can’t hear.
Additionally, a U.S. study found that individuals with hearing loss who don’t wear their hearing aid are two times as likely to be depressed. Depression can result in a lack of self-care, which can lead to health concerns.
Risks of falling and dementia are, as outlined by numerous studies, also decreased by using your hearing aids. The region of the brain that’s responsible for hearing will start to decline from lack of use as hearing declines. Over time, this can extend through the brain. As this occurs, people often experience dementia symptoms and the disorientation and lack of balance associated with falls.
Falls are one of the major causes of death among those over 65, and the resulting hospitalizations last twice as long.
Hearing aids decrease visits to the ER for these reasons amongst others.
Why do so Many Individuals Avoid Wearing Hearing Aids?
There’s really no good reason.
Fear of looking old is one leading reason why some people don’t use their hearing aids. 25% of individuals over 65 and 50% of people over 75 have hearing loss and yet this perception of looking old with hearing aids remains. Hearing impairment isn’t rare. It’s common. And thanks to the rise in noise pollution and earbud usage, hearing loss is on the rise with people in their twenties.
It’s ironic that when someone is always asking people what they said it actually makes them appear older.
Cost is often cited as a concern. However, hearing aids have become more affordable in just the last few years, and there are financing options available.
Some individuals don’t like how hearing aids sound. This can typically be fixed by simply working with your hearing specialist to learn how to more effectively use your hearing aid in different settings. Hearing aids can require multiple fittings before they are just right.
Make an appointment with your hearing specialist so we can help you feel more comfortable wearing your hearing aids.