How Does Hearing Health Affect General Health?
As we get older, taking care of our health becomes more and more important, and one area that is frequently neglected is our hearing. The impact of this can result in much more than just communication difficulties, which might surprise some seniors. The truth is that there is a strong correlation between hearing health and general well-being, which is why seniors must focus more on hearing health. The good news is that seniors with home care assistance services can receive the information and support they need to take the right steps toward better health overall.
Keep reading to learn more about how hearing health affects general health.
Better Cognitive Performance
According to research, seniors who retain good hearing health may have improved cognitive performance. Memory and attention are two of the many cognitive functions that the brain depends on auditory input. Because the brain has to work harder to interpret sounds when hearing is impaired, cognitive fatigue and possible cognitive deterioration result. Seniors who maintain their hearing health may benefit from improved cognitive function, greater attention, and improved memory recall.
Decreased Risk of Social Loneliness
As communication becomes difficult and participation in social activities may decline, hearing loss can frequently cause social retreat and feelings of loneliness. On the other hand, seniors who have good hearing health are more inclined to socialize and build relationships with friends, family, and the community. Keeping up an active social life can help lower the chances of sadness and loneliness in seniors and is essential for emotional well-being.
Reduced Risk of Falls and Accidents
Seniors who do not treat their hearing loss may be more likely to fall and have accidents. Hearing environmental cues like footsteps or approaching cars can be difficult to hear, which can affect balance and situational awareness and increase the risk of accidents or injury. Seniors can enhance their perception and response to their environment, lower their chance of falling, and preserve their independence by taking care of their hearing loss and using hearing aids as needed.
At the same time, home care assistance provides seniors with monitoring that highlights what areas of the home might give seniors the most difficulty and works with loved ones and seniors to make those areas safer.
Improved Quality of Life
Whether it’s listening to music, conversing with loved ones, or just taking in the sounds of nature, hearing is essential to living life to the fullest. Seniors who have good hearing health are better able to engage in their favorite activities, which enhances their overall quality of life. Maintaining good hearing health opens up a range of experiences and opportunities, from engaging in hobbies and leisure activities to going to social and cultural events.
Seniors who want to preserve their general health and quality of life must prioritize their hearing health. The good news is that with home care assistance by their side, seniors who address their hearing loss and seek the necessary interventions might benefit from several other health benefits, such as higher cognitive function, a lower risk of falling and social isolation, improved quality of life, and better overall health outcomes.
Sources: https://www.hearing.org/hearing-health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10454096/
https://centerforaud.com/hearing-and-your-overall-health/
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Assistance Services in the Belton MO area, please contact the caring staff at Elder Care of Kansas City, today.
Proudly serving Jackson, Clay, Platte, and Cass Counties in Missouri as well as Johnson and Wyandotte Counties in Kansas for over 30 years. Call us at 816-333-3322.
Prior to purchasing Elder Care, Kevin spent over 20 years in the health insurance industry.In his most recent position, he was in a financial operations role with Humana where he worked with doctors, nurses and other health professionals developing programs to keep Humana members healthy.Their focus on primary care and medication adherence improved the lives of thousands of seniors in Kansas City and the surrounding area.
Kevin and his wife, Lori, have three children.Kevin has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Missouri.
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