The brain serves as the central command center for our bodies, processing input from all our senses and swiftly making decisions to ensure our engagement with the environment, as well as our safety. Ongoing research continues to shed light on the profound effects of sensory loss on overall brain function. Namely, the effects of hearing loss and how it can alter social behavior, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life. If you’re thinking, ‘Oh boy, one more thing to worry about!’, we’re here to tell you that hearing loss can be easily treated and is nothing to worry about with the right information. So, let’s start by looking at how hearing loss can affect your brain, and more importantly, how you can prevent these unwelcome affects:
Untreated Hearing Loss and Mental Effort
Numerous studies examining the relationship between hearing loss and brain function have categorized individuals into three groups: (1) those with normal hearing, (2) individuals who use hearing aids, and (3) people with untreated hearing loss. A wealth of evidence supports the idea that individuals with untreated hearing loss expend significantly more mental effort than those with normal hearing or treated hearing when it comes to deciphering sounds and understanding conversations. What’s more, the presence of background noise further complicates matters for those with untreated hearing loss.
The impact of this slowed processing varies from person to person. For instance, someone who expends more energy on understanding a conversation may find themselves contributing fewer ideas or struggling to recall details of the discussion later on.
Social Struggles
Over time, these effects can lead to gradual changes in social behavior. Individuals with untreated hearing loss may become acutely aware of their difficulties and self-conscious about how others perceive their struggles. Consequently, they may begin to withdraw from social interactions. It is increasingly evident that both social withdrawal and hearing loss are risk factors for cognitive decline, such as dementia.
Healthy is Happy
Hearing plays a vital role in overall health and well-being, greatly contributing to one’s quality of life. Unfortunately, in many cases, hearing loss occurs gradually, and a significant number of people go for years without realizing they have clinically significant treatable hearing loss.
What Can I Do?
Considering that hearing loss affects 1 in every 3 adults over the age of 65 and half of adults over 75, it is strongly recommended that all individuals over 50 undergo a baseline hearing evaluation conducted by a licensed audiologist. Regardless of age, anyone experiencing noticeable hearing symptoms (including tinnitus) should seek the expertise of a Hearing Healthcare Provider.
Early identification of hearing loss enables early intervention and helps prevent the adverse effects of untreated hearing loss. If you or a loved one struggles to hear, experiences ringing, buzzing, hissing, or a feeling of fullness in the ears, or can relate to the signs and scenarios mentioned above, please don’t hesitate to contact our office or visit our website to schedule a hearing assessment and consultation.
