A longer life through better hearing
A recent study, published in the January 3, 2024, edition of The Lancet Healthy Longevity, sheds light on a significant finding for adults grappling with hearing loss. The research suggests that consistent use of hearing aids could potentially yield a remarkable 24% reduction in the risk of mortality compared to those who do not use them.
Previous studies have consistently underscored the detrimental impact of untreated hearing loss, encompassing compromised lifespan, heightened social isolation, increased susceptibility to depression, and an elevated risk of developing dementia. However, until this recent study, there has been a notable absence of empirical evidence demonstrating that the regular use of hearing aids could potentially counteract the life-shortening effects associated with hearing impairment.
The study, involving 1,863 adults with varying degrees of hearing loss, categorized 237 individuals as regular hearing aid users, defined by wearing hearing aids at least once a week for 5 hours or half the time. In contrast, 1,483 participants had never incorporated hearing aids into their routine. Strikingly, the researchers observed a nearly 25% difference in mortality risk between regular users and non-users. Importantly, this difference persisted across diverse factors, including the severity of hearing loss, age, ethnicity, income, education, and medical history.
Conversely, the study found no statistically significant difference in mortality risk between non-regular users and those who had never used hearing aids, hinting that sporadic use may not confer the same life-extending benefits. Although the study did not delve into the intricate mechanisms explaining the potential link between hearing aids and an increased lifespan, recent research has suggested that improved mental health, enhanced cognitive function facilitated by better hearing, and overall health enhancement could collectively contribute to a pathway leading to a prolonged and healthier life.
The take home issue here is about the importance of hearing in overall health, hearing loss doesn’t bleed and it doesn’t hurt so commonly gets ignored! Getting help early is a good idea.