By Daniel Hewson, Master of Science Degree in Audiology, Upstate Hearing Aid CenterIf youre dealing with a hearing loss challenge, the rest of your body will be affected in more ways than one.Social isolation, dementia, and cognitive decline are all at higher risk for individuals with untreated hearing lossas well as falling, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has declared the leading cause of injury for older adults.Research shows that adults with even a mild hearing loss have a greater risk of falling, but there are several ways to help prevent an unfortunate tumble.Of course, keeping your body in working order is an effective way to maintain balance, but did you know that professional hearing care is one of the best ways to reduce your fall risk?A study conducted by Laura Campos, PhD, from the University of Colorados medical school, compared fall risk between hearing aid users and non-users.
The results were striking: hearing aid users had significantly reduced odds of experiencing a fallwell over 50% lower than non-users.The study concluded that hearing aid use is associated with lower odds of falling, especially with regular and consistent use.The vestibular systemthe hard-working parts of your inner earis responsible for balance and keeping your head upright.It makes sense that taking care of your hearing and addressing potential hearing loss would help prevent falls.
Understanding this link between fall risk and auditory function highlights the importance of getting your hearing cared for.By prioritizing your hearing health, youre also protecting your overall well-being.How Professional Hearing Care Can Help YouIf youve been struggling with balance, dizziness, or vertigo, a balance test could shed light on whats going on.Inner ear balance issues can cause unsteadiness on your feet, which raises your fall risk.Balance testing can benefit anyone experiencing instability.
The ears, eyes, and muscles work together to maintain balance, and when one of these systems malfunctions, dizziness and balance problems can occur.Multiple studies emphasize the importance of hearing care and hearing aid technologywhich is great news, since professional hearing care is readily available.Hearing loss is not something to ignore or be embarrassed by.Millions of Americans experience some form of hearing loss, and many dont realize the importance of addressing it until it begins to negatively affect their daily lives.If youre reading this and think you may be dealing with hearing loss, youre not alone.Take charge of your hearing health today and experience the benefits for your entire body.
Publisher: Life Plan Community ( Read More )
