The benefits of treating hearing loss early

New data suggests that the treatment of hearing loss can also reduce feelings of isolation among older people.

YouGov research commissioned by Connect Hearing has revealed that 43% of Australians aged 50 and upwards who were experiencing hearing loss reported losing confidence in social interactions. In addition, 24% of these respondents felt isolated from friends and family due to their condition.

Alarmingly, 27% of respondents with hearing loss said they avoid social events and occasions. More than a third of respondents (35%) with hearing loss agreed that it was impacting their health and wellbeing, with over a quarter (26%) claiming it was putting a strain on their relationships.

The importance of social connection and sleep

Dr Marny Lishman, a health and community psychologist, said this research shows there are many older Australians who may be retreating from their normal day-to-day activities with family and friends due to untreated hearing loss.

“Social connections are a vital component of long-term health and wellbeing. It is concerning to see that many are avoiding these situations altogether, which can have a serious impact on our health and wellbeing as we age. Social isolation is linked to increased risks of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It can also lead to heightened stress levels, poor sleep and cognitive decline,” Lishman said.

“Accepting the need for more self-care as we age can be challenging, but it’s better for our overall wellbeing to address ailments promptly.”

The survey also found that less than half (49%) of people with untreated hearing loss are satisfied with their quality of sleep.

Based on the survey sample of 1039 Australians aged 50+ years, the results could suggest that an estimated two million people aged 50+ have untreated hearing loss and more than one million people in this age group could be missing a good night’s rest.

Sam Thomas, an audiologist at Connect Hearing, said he often sees people who get a hearing check present with other health issues that may be connected.

“At Connect Hearing, I see people struggling with daily conversations and experiencing overstimulation from background noise, which in my opinion can lead to exhaustion,” Thomas said.

“Evidently, this exhaustion, combined with reduced participation in social activities, shows that the impacts of untreated hearing loss can be far-reaching.”

Making a difference through treatment

On the flip side, the majority of people who have sought treatment for hearing loss (72%) claim that hearing aids have allowed them to get their life back, showing that, in many instances, paying attention to symptoms may have a positive impact on other areas of wellbeing.

“Technology now exists to help people make the most of life without being held back in social situations, or having to play musical chairs to hear people when having conversations or feeling self-conscious about wearing hearing aids,” Thomas said.

“If you or someone you know is struggling with hearing loss, you don’t need to suffer through it. A simple hearing check can often help people stop living with social discomfort and achieve a better quality of life.”

Additional key survey findings include:

• Four in five (79%) people who have a friend or family member with hearing loss agree they have encouraged or are likely to encourage them to seek treatment.
• Two-thirds (67%) who have a friend or family member with hearing loss agree that they ensure that social occasions and gatherings are in locations that are comfortable for their family or friends with hearing loss.
• Over one in three (35%) who have a friend or family member with hearing loss agree their family or friend with hearing loss has asked them if they think they are experiencing hearing loss.
• 43% of people with hearing loss agree that it is negatively impacting their quality of life.
• Nearly half (48%) of those with hearing loss agree that their hearing loss has created awkward or uncomfortable situations with others
• More than half (57%) of respondents with hearing loss agree that they often need to change physical locations (such as moving seats) to engage in conversation.
   

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