How Neglected Hearing Loss Affects Mobility

Hearing loss is frequently seen as a condition affecting only your ears. Research suggests that if hearing loss is not dealt with, it can have a significant effect on your ability to move around comfortably, suggesting that difficulty hearing could make daily actions, such as getting up from a couch, more difficult. How does your hearing relate to your ability to move?

This article will explore the consequences of not dealing with hearing loss on one’s ability to move around, its impact on general well-being, and the relevance of responding to safeguard both hearing and mobility.

Correlation Between Hearing Impairment and Mobility

It’s typical to think of the body as a series of separated systems– ears and feet are separate entities, treated by different practitioners. Actually, our bodies are sophisticated systems where various elements are deeply intertwined, and problems in one location can have a domino effect, impacting other parts in surprising and unforeseen ways. This is why researchers began investigating the link between hearing loss and mobility, specifically in relation to overall physical function and movement.

In a study tracking over 2,000 people, researchers found that people with untreated hearing loss frequently experienced more difficulty with mobility. It uncovered difficulties with maintaining balance, mobility, and carrying out normal tasks. Scientists are still working to understand the underlying causes of this connection, and a range of theories have been put forward to explain it:

• Shared Underlying Causes: A possible common connection between hearing loss and reduced mobility is the presence of inflammation, a widespread underlying element that contributes to in various health problems. When inflammation occurs in the body, it can have an effect on both hearing and overall physical health.
• Social Isolation and Inactive Lifestyle: Neglected hearing loss often leads to social isolation. People with hearing loss may avoid social events, resulting in decreased physical activity and further loss of mobility. Lengthy periods of inactivity can lead to muscle and joint atrophy, producing a vicious cycle of reduced mobility.
• Age-Related Variables: Age-related factors like hearing loss and mobility issues are common as we age, and often, these issues happen simultaneously. Even when accounting for the impact of age, a considerable link remains between aging and the degeneration of both auditory and physical abilities.

While various theories have been put forward, researchers continue to explore the exact nature of the connection between hearing impairment and mobility, as the causal relationship between the two is not completely understood. However, it’s clear that the two conditions often work together.

Additional Effects of Neglected Hearing Loss

Failing to address hearing loss can have far-reaching consequences that go beyond impaired hearing. The following are some of the primary health effects connected with hearing loss:

• Chronic Tiredness: Continuous mental effort to hear can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. Individuals who fail to address their hearing loss routinely mention experiencing tiredness due to the mental exertion required to understand sounds. This may reduce total energy levels and lessen endurance, affecting day-to-day activities including physical movement.
• Mental Health Struggles: Untreated hearing loss over a prolonged period is related to an increased probability of experiencing anxiety and depression. The withdrawal that frequently goes along with hearing loss can exacerbate these mental health problems, causing a vicious cycle of emotional and physical decline.
• Cognitive Decline: Untreated hearing loss has been shown by research to have a significant link to a higher probability of experiencing Alzheimer’s disease and various types of dementia, leading to cognitive decline. The exact process is not fully understood, but research indicates that the mental strain arising from hearing loss may play a role in the degeneration of cognitive abilities.
• Social Solitude: People coping with unaddressed hearing loss might withdraw from social situations due to the frustration and embarrassment of conversations. The resulting isolation can exacerbate existing physical and mental health problems.

Dealing with hearing loss early is crucial due to the interrelated effects it has. Waiting to manage hearing loss can lead to a series of health problems that affect both mental and physical health.

Strengthening Movement by Finding Help for Hearing Loss

The good news is that dealing with hearing loss can have a positive impact on total health, including mobility. For many people, the solution involves going to a hearing specialist and getting fitted with hearing aids. By improving auditory quality, these devices can have a far-reaching impact on total health, cultivating greater mental stimulation, easing the feeling of solitude, and potentially even minimizing the development of related health problems.

While there is no solid evidence linking the use of hearing aids to improved mobility, it is logical to presume that individuals who are socially active and mentally engaged are likely to see positive effects on their physical mobility as well. Staying active by taking part in physical activity or participating in social interactions can help in maintaining joint health and lowering the chances of becoming immobile.

Beyond hearing aids, prevention is key. Protecting your hearing from noisy environments and using ear protection in noisy spaces can help avoid further damage. In addition, regular hearing assessments are crucial to recognize hearing loss early, especially as you grow older. Detecting or dealing with hearing loss early on can decrease the effects it has on your physical and mental well-being.

Protect Your Hearing to Increase Your Independence and Quality of Life

The connection between untreated hearing loss and reduced mobility is clear, and it underscores the significance of taking proactive steps to maintain your hearing health. By managing hearing loss with hearing aids and routine screenings, you can maintain not only your ability to hear but also your physical mobility and overall quality of life.

If you or a loved one are struggling with hearing loss, don’t delay. Reach out to us as soon as possible to address the issue and possibly enhance not only your hearing but also your overall quality of life and independence.