Untreated hearing loss has serious emotional and social consequences for older persons, including depression, according to a large-scale study by the National Council on Aging (NCOA).
Although the study was released almost a decade ago, it remains a classic in debunking “the myth that hearing loss in older persons is a harmless condition,” according to Dr. Firman, president and CEO of the council.
The survey of hearing impaired adults age 50 and older found that those with untreated hearing loss were less likely to participate in organized social activities, compared to those who wear hearing aids.
Hearing aid users (and their families) reported benefits in many areas of their lives, ranging from their relationships at home and sense of independence to their social and their sex life.
The study found that two-thirds of the older, non-user respondents said, “My hearing is not bad enough” or “I can get along without one.” And one in five offered the explanation that “It would make me feel old” or “I don’t like what others will think about me.”
“It is very sad that so many older people are letting denial or vanity get in the way of treatments that can significantly improve the quality of their lives,” states Dr. Firman. “Doctors and family members should insist that hearing-impaired seniors seek appropriate treatment.”
Hearing Aids and Quality of Life
The study asserts, “It would seem that hearing is a second-rate sense when compared to vision in our visually oriented society. People with hearing loss delay a decision to get hearing help because they are unaware of the fact that receiving early treatment for hearing loss has the potential to literally transform their lives.”
Specifically, hearing aids were shown to improve:
• Earning power
• Communication in relationships
• Intimacy and warmth in family relationships
• Perception of mental functioning
• Physical health
• Group social participation
Just as importantly, hearing loss treatment was shown to reduce:
• Anger and frustration in relationships
• Depression and depressive symptoms
• Anxiety
• Self-criticism
Please feel free to call Nola Aronson, M.A., Patrice Rifkind, Au.D., Ginny Newman, Au.D., or Nina Ball, M.S., at 661-288-1400 and ask to make an appointment for a free consultation.