Audiology Updates: Isolation and Depression From Hearing Loss

Some people may dismiss hearing loss as an inconvenient, but not serious, issue. Our hearing specialists here at Hearing Associates of Las Vegas want to make it clear that this is not the case. Hearing loss has a clear connection to individuals becoming isolated and depressed.

How Hearing Loss Lead To Isolation And Depression

Even mild hearing loss can make social situations uncomfortable. Sound can often be perceived as distorted as echoes, mumbled, or missed altogether when you struggle with hearing loss. This kind of uncomfortable hearing situation can lead those with hearing loss to avoid situations where they need to follow a conversation. However, avoiding socialization leads to its own problems.

Humans are social creatures, whether they are introverts or extroverts, and a certain amount of socialization is required, according to research. Otherwise, depression due to social isolation is a common result.

On top of the isolation and depression that hearing loss can bring, researchers have also identified that hearing loss and depression can make a person five times more likely to develop cognitive impairment such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. But, hearing loss doesn’t have to lead to these things.

Ways To Prevent Hearing Loss-Induced Isolation And Depression

There is a variety of things you can do to prevent hearing loss-induced social isolation and depression. Some of the best actions to take are:

• Annual hearing tests to check for hearing loss – By having an annual hearing test starting in your late forties or early fifties, you can catch hearing loss early and prevent much of the side-effects.
• Use hearing aids correctly – If you already struggle with hearing loss, using your hearing aids correctly is keep to remaining socially active and happy. This means the hearing aids need to be worn daily, properly adjusted, and fully powered to keep you hearing properly.
• Become involved in various activities – Finding ways to stay socially engaged is an ideal way to prevent isolation and depression. Some opportunities you may want to pursue are volunteering with a local charity, holding regular meetups with friends, spending time with family, and other options.
• Protect your hearing – Whether you already have hearing loss or have perfect hearing, you should be protecting your hearing. Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common way to lose your hearing, so make sure you protect your hearing when you know you are going to be in a noisy place.

If you or a loved one are struggling with hearing loss, we can help. Contact us to schedule a complimentary hearing test, and we will assist you in detecting your exact level of hearing loss.