![Audiology Consultants] of Panama City](https://audiology-consultants.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Audiology-Consultants-of-Panama-City-1.png)
- Up in Smoke: Exploring the Hidden Risks of Tobacco Use on Hearing Health - April 10, 2024
- Navigating Hearing Loss as a Millennial - March 13, 2024
- Understanding the Testing Process: What to Expect During a Hearing Evaluation - February 14, 2024
Several recent studies have shown the link between hearing loss among seniors and earlier death. This is especially concerning as close to one third of adults between the ages of 65 and 74 have some sort of hearing loss. Hearing loss in seniors not only impacts their ability to engage in communication, it may be detrimental to social, physical, and mental well-being. Several recent studies reveal the links between hearing loss and mortality.
Multiple Studies Link Hearing Loss to Mortality
A study conducted by the Robert N. Butler Columbia Aging Center at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that mortality rates among those facing hearing loss is higher among seniors, and those who are separated or divorced. Lower mortality rates were found in adults with a well-hearing partner or spouse. This study was one of the first to investigate the combined impacts of hearing loss with partnership, parental status, and heightened mortality risk.
Another study from the John Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, led by Kevin Contrera, MPH and MD candidate, combined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to analyze the correlation between hearing loss and all-cause mortality, or the rate of death for the population due to all causes. The results from this study showed similar findings, linking hearing loss with premature death.
In a 2015 observational study, lead researcher DJ Genther determined that those with hearing impairments were 42.9% more likely to die prematurely as compared to 31.4% of individuals with normal hearing. A 2014 published Icelandic study indicated adults facing hearing loss had a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, leading to premature death. A 2010 Australian report from the Blue Mountains Hearing study also suggested that hearing loss was associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortaility.
What the Studies Reveal
There is a clear pattern that emerges from these studies that suggest untreated hearing loss among the elderly leads to significant health concerns, including mortality. Explanations for this could be the link between hearing loss and physical and cognitive functional decline. Another factor is the level of support we have from loved ones.
Vegard Skirbekk, researcher in the Columbia study, states, “Our findings verify that excess mortality among the hearing impaired can be particularly high among individuals with certain family constellations, such as men who are divorced or women who do not have children… When governments develop plans to lower the incidence of hearing impairment, they may want to consider the family dimension when designing intervention and social and health support systems.”
Synchronously, hearing health professionals can provide professional support to individuals facing hearing loss. A routine hearing screening and follow-up with older adults, along with using a hearing aid to treat any hearing loss can improve cognitive function, and may mitigate the grave consequences of hearing loss.
On the Path Towards Hearing Health
Are you a senior who is facing hearing loss and has yet to get treatment? Do you know someone in your life that is living with untreated hearing loss? If you answered yes to either questions, it is vitally important to seek a hearing health professional as soon as possible. On average, it takes people up to 7 years to treat their hearing problem! Imagine having high blood pressure or diabetes and waiting that long for treatment. The sooner you reach out a hearing health professional the better your health outcomes will be.
Equally important is have a robust network of people to support you. If you are someone facing hearing loss and already have a strong network of family, friends, and community then you’re in a good position. For those who lack such networks while facing hearing loss, find a support group in your area, and meet others who have gone through the same journey you are on. There are abundant resources and groups all over the country, and they’ll provide the emotional support to guide you through your hearing loss journey.
Schedule an Appointment with Audiology Consultants Today!
If you or someone you know is facing hearing loss and does not have the needed support to improve hearing health, reach out to us at Audiology Consultants. Our specialists will provide you the necessary resources to improve your hearing health today.