What are the health benefits of getting hearing aids?

Whether you’re experiencing age-related hearing loss or a condition like tinnitus, you may be aware of how hearing aids can help. They can improve sound clarity, help you communicate with loved ones more easily, and reduce ringing, buzzing or humming noises.

But did you know that hearing aids can boost more than just your hearing? Here are three key ways hearing aids can benefit your overall health.

 

Reduced cognitive decline

As we get older, many of us experience forgetfulness — but have you ever wondered if this is linked to hearing loss? Beyond the physical impact, studies have shown that hearing loss is often associated with cognitive decline and memory loss. In fact, for many, forgetfulness can be one of the first signs of hearing loss.

This may be due to the strain that hearing loss puts on your mental resources. Reduced hearing means your brain needs to work harder to comprehend sounds, leaving less energy to process other things — this is known as ‘mild cognitive impairment’.

So, it stands to reason that improving your hearing can free up energy to support your memory and cognitive processes. Indeed, a 2020 study found that 97.3% of people with hearing loss who wore hearing aids for 18 months or more experienced an increase in cognitive function.

Mild cognitive impairment is also linked to a higher risk of dementia. And although dementia is often genetic, lifestyle also plays a big role. Experts believe that a third of dementia cases could be prevented through lifestyle measures such as reduced smoking and managing hearing loss, obesity, and diabetes.

 

Improved mental health

As well as supporting your cognitive health, hearing aids can also improve mental and emotional well-being. 

Whether you’ve noticed hearing loss in one ear or both, it can greatly impact the way you interact with others. Not being able to hear can often lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. You may struggle to keep up with conversations or feel exhausted in noisy group settings due to the extra energy needed to socialise. This can be frustrating and may cause you to withdraw from friends and family. 

Being unable to communicate clearly can also lead to anger, depression and anxiety. Sometimes, those with hearing loss feel as if they’ve lost part of their identity. Fortunately, hearing aids can help you interact with loved ones more easily, promoting a positive mindset and stronger relationships. 

 

Lower risk of falls

Did you know that hearing loss is a common cause of falls? Even mild hearing loss can affect spatial awareness and balance. This is because the brain uses more resources to process sounds, leaving less available to support balance and gait. As a result, those with hearing loss are more likely to trip or fall. Hearing aids offer a straightforward way to reduce the risk.

 

Amplify: support for hearing loss

No matter what level of hearing loss you’re experiencing, support is available. If you’ve noticed any hearing loss symptoms, it’s a good idea to arrange a hearing test to get it checked out. Not only can this identify any underlying issues and prevent symptoms from worsening, but it can also help you enjoy a better quality of life. 

At Amplify, we know just how important regular hearing tests are. Our postcode tool makes it quick and easy to find a qualified audiologist in your local area. As the UK’s leading independent hearing aid provider, we offer unbiased hearing advice you can trust and will help you get the most out of your hearing aids.  

Get in touch for more information or go ahead and book a hearing test today.